Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Measure the distance to the nearest light source.
- Observe if the plant is leaning toward the window.
- Check if the new leaves are significantly smaller than the old ones.
Likely causes
Insufficient Light
PossibleHow to tell: The stems stretch out with large gaps between the leaves as the plant reaches for a light source. The leaves may also look smaller than usual.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with bright, indirect light. If you cannot provide natural light, use a grow light for 8 to 10 hours a day.
Lack of Pruning
PossibleHow to tell: The plant grows tall and thin without branching out. This is a natural growth habit that can be corrected with shaping.
What to do: Prune the top stems to encourage the plant to branch out lower down. Do this in the spring when the plant is actively growing.
Find out what's wrong with your african fig
The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
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When to worry
It is not a health emergency, but it does mean the plant is not getting what it needs to thrive. It is normal for older plants to lose some lower leaves over time.
Stopping it coming back
Rotate your plant every time you water so all sides get equal light. Prune it annually to keep it full and bushy.
African Fig: leggy growth? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your african fig and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free
Questions people ask
- Will my leggy stems fill back in?
- Unfortunately, leaves will not grow back on bare sections of the stem. Pruning is the best way to encourage new, fuller growth.
- How much light is enough?
- This plant loves bright, indirect light. A spot near an east or west facing window is usually perfect.
More problems with African Fig
- Why is my African Fig dropping its leaves?
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This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.