Fig tree- Ficus Carica
Where does the Ficus Carica come from?
The Figtree, also known as Ficus Carica, originally comes from Asia. This plant dates back to the reign of Louis the 4th. It was actually the Romans who introduced the fig into England. Figs are delicious fruits and easy to keep, so this sped up its spread through all of the Roman Empire.
This Ficus does very well in the climate of the Netherlands. The ‘Madeleine des Deux Saisons’ has become our favourite after years of experience. It has a leathery leaf of no less than 30 x 25 cm and quickly shows lots of buds. The Ficus fruits or figs ripen between July and September after which they are edible. You can enjoy a delicious harvest not just once but twice a year. This Ficus produces quite large gold/yellow fruits with sweet and juicy pink flesh. Its fruits will ripen better if you protect the Ficus during the winter.
The Ficus is a fat grower and get grow up to several metres high if you do not prune it. This southern region tree with its large leaves will be quite protected facing South and can take winter temperatures of as low as -15°C.
Moisture levels:
Preference for medium damp soil
Location:
Full sun, preference for a sheltered spot
Height:
Several metres high if not pruned. Can grow as high as 8 metres
Evergreen or deciduous:
Deciduous
Pruning:
In the spring
Fertilizing:
Fruit fertilizer
Flowering period:
July
Harvest period:
July – August
Edible?
Yes
Trivia:
The leaf of the fig tree is best known from images of Adam and Eve but in classical paintings, the fig leaf was commonly used to cover male subjects’ private parts.