General Culture:
Figs are best grown in USDA Zones 8-10 in organically rich, moist, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Figs may be grown in protected locations in USDA Zones 6 and 7 (e.g., against south-facing walls) with root mulch, but plants will usually show significant die back in cold winters. When temperatures in winter dip below 15 degrees F., consider additional protection for outdoor plants to the extent possible (e.g., clear plastic sheets or frames). In USDA Zones 5 and 6, figs can be grown as low-branching shrubs that are “laid down” in winter (branches are bent over and covered with soil with soil also mounded over the main trunking). Many fig cultivars are now available, with ‘Brown Turkey’ and ‘Chicago Hardy’ being noted for having unusually good winter hardiness. In St. Louis, plants are best grown in containers in full sun. Water regularly during the growing season but reduce watering in fall. Containers must be brought indoors in winter. Large containers may be overwintered in greenhouses, garages or basements.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
Common fig is a deciduous shrub (to 10-15’ tall) or small tree (to 15-30’ tall). It is noted for its spreading habit, attractive foliage and edible fruit. Old trees with smooth silver gray bark (sometimes gnarled with age) are ornamentally attractive. Common fig is native to western Asia and the eastern Mediterranean. It has been cultivated for at least 5000 years. Figs are typically grown today in subtropical, Mediterranean or warm temperate areas. In the U. S., commercial growth is concentrated in California (primarily fresh and dried) and in Texas (primarily canned). Large, palmate, hairy, 3-5 lobed leaves (to 10” long) are rough dark green above and smooth light green beneath. Non-showy greenish flowers form in spring inside hollow receptacles near the branch growing tips. The fruit (edible fig) develops within each receptacle. The main fruit crop ripens in late summer or fall on new wood. In some areas, a lesser crop may appear in spring on new wood. Species plants as well as most fig cultivars are parthenocarpic (fruits develop without cross pollination). Some figs (e.g., Smyrna figs) need cross pollination which is done by a small fig wasp.
Problems:
No serious insect or disease problems. Watch for root knot nematodes, scale, aphids, mealybugs and spider mites. Leaf spots, rust and blight may occur. Fruit can become a mess if not promptly harvested.
Uses:
Ornamental or fruit tree. In Missouri, plants may be grown in sheltered locations outdoors with root mulch or in containers that are overwintered indoors.
© Missouri Botanical
Garden, 2001-2010
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