The Bambino plant, also known as the Dwarf Fiddle Leaf Fig, is gaining popularity for its compact size and stylish, violin-shaped leaves. This tropical plant thrives when grown as a houseplant and can add a touch of greenery to any space when kept in a pot.
If you recently acquired a Bambino plant or are thinking of getting one, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the tips and tricks you need to keep your plant healthy and thriving indoors
Choosing the Right Pot
When selecting a pot for your Bambino plant, ensure it has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging. The pot should be just slightly larger than the plant’s root ball, providing enough room for growth without being too big.
Terracotta and ceramic pots work well as they allow air to circulate around the roots Avoid pots without drainage as well as decorative containers that may restrict air flow
Using the Proper Soil
The Bambino plant requires a well-draining potting mix that retains some moisture. Regular potting soil on its own tends to become too compacted.
Instead, use a mix of:
- Potting soil
- Perlite or pumice to improve drainage
- Peat moss or coco coir to help retain moisture
Make sure the soil is loose and fluffy, not dense. You can add horticultural charcoal as well to keep the soil fresh.
Watering Correctly
The Bambino plant prefers moist but not soggy or waterlogged soil. Water thoroughly once the top inch of soil becomes dry, taking care not to overwater.
Always pour water until it drains from the bottom drainage holes, as this ensures the entire root zone is hydrated. Never allow the plant to sit in a saucer of water.
In winter when growth slows, reduce watering frequency. Likewise, increase watering in hot and dry weather. Stick your finger into the soil to gauge moisture levels.
Providing the Right Light
The Bambino plant thrives in medium to bright indirect light. Place it near an east or west-facing window where it receives gentle sunlight in the morning or evening.
Avoid direct hot sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. Rotate the plant occasionally so all sides get adequate light exposure.
If the leaves start yellowing, it indicates insufficient light. Move the plant closer to a light source or use a grow light to supplement natural lighting.
Maintaining Humidity
Native to tropical forests, the Bambino plant prefers average to high humidity levels between 50-60%. Low humidity causes the leaf tips to brown.
Increase humidity around the plant by:
- Misting the leaves frequently
- Placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water
- Using a humidifier in the room
Grouping plants together also creates a more humid microclimate.
Providing Optimal Temperatures
The Bambino plant thrives in average room temperatures between 65-75°F. Avoid placing it near heating/AC vents or drafty windows where temperatures fluctuate too much.
This tropical plant cannot tolerate cold conditions. If temperatures drop below 50°F, you may notice leaf drop. During winter, keep the plant in the warmest location in your home.
Fertilizing Occasionally
The Bambino plant is not a heavy feeder and only requires occasional fertilizing during the growing season. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Fertilize once every 6-8 weeks in spring and summer, avoiding the winter months. Excess fertilizer can burn the leaves and roots.
Repotting When Required
Repot the Bambino plant when it becomes rootbound or if the roots are growing out of the drainage holes. Move it to a pot that is 2 inches larger in diameter, using fresh potting mix.
These plants have a slower growth rate and may only need repotting every 2-3 years. Avoid overpotting into an excessively large container.
Pruning for Shape
For a full, bushy Bambino plant, pinch off the top inch of new growth. This encourages branching and fullness. You can also prune leggy stems to shape the plant.
Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased foliage as soon as you notice it. Sterilize pruning shears before each use to avoid spreading disease.
Maintaining Ideal Growing Conditions
By providing the Bambino plant with the proper growing conditions outlined in this guide, you can keep your plant healthy and looking its best. High humidity, moderate light, warm temperatures, and a well-draining potting mix are key.
With the right care, your Bambino plant will thrive indoors, adding a touch of jungle flair to your home with its lush green foliage. Its compact size makes it an excellent choice for desks, tabletops and small space living.
Common Problems and Solutions
Yellowing Leaves
This is usually a sign of overwatering or insufficient light. Allow the soil to dry out more between waterings and move the plant to a brighter location. Remove any mushy roots as they indicate root rot.
Wilting or Drooping Leaves
Underwatering causes the leaves to wilt and droop. Check soil moisture and water the plant deeply, taking care to avoid overwatering. Give the plant some time to recover and perk up after watering.
Leaf Spotting
If you notice brown spots on the leaves, it is likely due to drafts, direct sunlight, or mineral buildup in the water. Try filtering water before use and keep the plant away from cold drafts and hot sun.
Mealybugs
These common pests look like white cottony masses on the leaves and stems. Isolate affected plants and use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove the bugs. You can also spray neem oil.
Leaf Curling
Low humidity causes the leaf edges to curl and turn brown. Increase humidity around the plant using the tips outlined above. The leaves should uncurl once humidity levels rise.
By quickly identifying issues and making suitable adjustments, you can maintain a healthy and thriving Bambino plant in your home.
Propagating Bambino Plants
The Bambino plant can be easily propagated from stem cuttings for more plants:
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Take 5-6 inch stem cuttings in spring using clean, sharp scissors. Cut just below a node.
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Remove the bottom 2 sets of leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder.
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Plant the cutting in a small pot filled with potting mix. Water lightly and cover with a plastic bag.
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Place the pot in indirect bright light. Keep the soil lightly moist but not soggy.
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New roots and leaves should emerge in 4-6 weeks. Gradually introduce the plant to normal lighting and humidity levels.
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Once the plant is established, repot into a larger container using fresh potting mix.
Propagating from cuttings is an easy, cost-effective way to get new Bambino plants for free. Take multiple cuttings at once to increase your chances of success.
Enjoying the Bambino Plant
With its compact size, the Bambino plant is perfect for any space, from offices to apartments. Caring for one of these tropical beauties is also straightforward as long as you provide adequate moisture, humidity, fertilizer, light, and the right potting mix.
By following the tips outlined in this complete care guide, you can have a healthy and thriving Bambino plant that provides elegant, emerald foliage to brighten up your indoor space for years to come.
Taxonomy Scientific name
Alocasia Bambino Aurea needs 0.5 cups of water every 9 when it doesn’t get direct sunlight and is potted in a 5″ pot.
Use our water calculator to personalize watering recommendations to your environment or download Greg for more advanced recommendations for all of your plants.
Water 0.5 cups every 9
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Finding light for Alocasia ‘Bambino’ Aurea in your home
Alocasia Bambino Aurea may have difficulty thriving, and will drop leaves , without ample sunlight.
Place it less than 3 feet from a south-facing window to maximize the potential for growth.
Select your region to see how the current weather in your area affects the placement of Alocasia Bambino Aurea in your home .
FIDDLE LEAF FIG ‘Bambino’ Care – Ficus lyrata Tree Care
FAQ
How do you care for a bambino plant indoors?
How often should I water an Alocasia bambino?
What is the best potting mix for Alocasia bambino?
Why are the leaves on my Alocasia bambino turning brown?
How do you care for a Bambino plant?
‘Bambino’ plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Place your plant in a location where it can receive plenty of filtered sunlight, such as near a north or east-facing window. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the leaves. If necessary, use sheer curtains or blinds to diffuse the light.
How to grow a baby Bambino?
Whether you choose to grow your ‘Bambino’ indoors or outdoors in warmer zones, proper potting, light, water, humidity, and regular care are crucial for its well-being. Additionally, propagation is possible through cuttings and air layering, allowing you to expand your collection or share plants with others.
How to propagate Alocasia Bambino?
HOW TO PROPAGATE ALOCASIA BAMBINO Alocasias will propagate themselves by growing more corms. Small plants will form from small corms at the base of the plant. Don’t be too quick to separate those baby plants though otherwise you can stunt the growth of the plant.
What temperature should a Bambino grow?
Like any Alocasia, Bambino likes evenly warm conditions. Aim for 65°-85°F (18°-29°C) as an ideal temperature range for your plant. Avoid cold and hot drafts, such as those coming from heatling/cooling vents, and keep away from doors and windows during cold weather. Bambino will appreciate an evenly warm, stable temperature. 5. HUMIDITY