Office plants
can lighten the mood, make the room more welcoming and improve the health of employees. This can be attributed to the fact that plants help with air purification, humidity control and also help achieve a tropical look. All in all, the benefits you get will depend on the type of plant you adopt and the attention you give it. In this post, we will be focusing on the Ficus Lyrata. It is a must have for any office.
Characteristics
The Ficus Lyrata is commonly referred to as the fiddle-leaf fig. It belongs to a species of fig tree which are native to western Africa; more precisely west of Sierra Leone, Cameroon. The plant thrives in lowland tropical rainforest. You have to recreate these conditions for your office plants to flourish.
In its native habitat, the plant can grow up to 39 to 49 feet tall. It has leaves that are variable in shape but which are broad at the apex and narrow at the middle. The leaves resemble a fiddle or lyre. They can be up to 18 inches long and 12 inches broad. They have a leathery texture, wavy margin and prominent veins.
Why use Ficus Lyrata as office plants?
The Ficus Lyrata plants are popular as ornamental trees. They are common in the subtropical and tropical gardens. They are ideal as houseplants or office plants in temperate areas. In such conditions, the plant will stay shorter and will not flower or fruit. The plant is frost tender. The large leaves are what make this plant an ideal choice for office decoration.
In addition to the aesthetic appeal, the Ficus Lyrata will bring a range of health benefits. For starters, its broad leaves will help with air purification. Through the process of metabolic breakdown, the office plants will eliminate various chemical compounds from the air. This means fewer ailments especially those related to the respiratory system. In addition to that, the plant will help with humidity control. This is essential in the elimination of dust from the air and preventing such problems as coughs, colds, sore throats and fatigue.
At the end of the day, having Ficus Lyrata as office plants will improve your productivity and generally lift your spirits. All in all, the plant needs special care.
Caring for Ficus Lyrata
The Ficus Lyrata requires bright, filtered light. These plants can also tolerate some full sun especially when they are placed in the eastern-facing window. Placing the plant in a dark room will inhibit rapid growth.
The soil should be kept steadily moist. Don’t overwater as sitting in water causes the leaves to drop and the roots may start to rot. Any fast-draining potting soil is good. Feed the plant with liquid fertilizer throughout its growing season.
Propagating your office plants may include stem-tip cutting. However, buying a new plant is highly advised. Healthy specimens grow pretty fast. Repot to a larger pot until the plant reaches a desired size.
All things considered, Ficus Lyrata plants are not demanding plants. They make great office plants.