Ficus carica
Common Fig
Photo of Ficus carica - Common Fig
No photo for the moment for Ficus carica - Common Fig
Please note: You must be the owner of the posted photo and it must not be copyrighted.
Things You Must Knows cannot be held responsible for photos posted in violation of this rule
Common Name:
Foliage color:
GreenSun (From 0 to 5):
Water (From 0 to 5):
Maximum temperature:
Minimum temperature:
Maximum height:
Maximum width:
Common Fig (Ficus carica) - Description
Ficus carica is what is known as the common fig. Many cultivars exist from this bountiful tree. Look for two crops to come a year from most fig trees. The first coming ripe in June to July and the second crop is usually ready by late summer. Unbelievably sweet and juicy if the figs are picked at perfection. As it ages it will concentrate its flavors and still be decadent. Don't let them hang around too long...or the birds will get them before you get a chance!
Common Fig (Ficus carica) - Blooming
Blooms tiny flowers, grouped inside green 'fruits'. This arrangement is called a synconium. All of the flowers of the common fig are females. The first crop is borne in spring on the last season's growth. This is called the breba crop. The second crop is borne on new growth in the fall and is called the main crop. The fruit has a fleshy interior.
Common Fig (Ficus carica) - Growth
Deciduous tree, well adapted to Mediterranean and dryer warm temperate climates, although Ficus carica has been known to grow in cooler, wetter regions with care. Figs usually do not grow well in tropical climates, because of the prevalence of diseases. Dormant trees can withstand temperatures as low as 12-15°F (-11 - -9°C), but while in growth, 30°F (-11 - -9°C) will damage the plants. Ficus carica grows best with full sun, however the trunk and branches are especially sensitive to heat and sun damage. Whitewashing should be conducted if high exposure occurs. The roots of figs spread out great distances, so the fig is not ideal for small sites. Figs work well in containers, and it is advised to use a slow-growing cultivar for containers.
Common Fig (Ficus carica) - Planting
Propagate Ficus carica from cuttings such as dormant wood with a two year old base, or one year old twigs on a two year old branch. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and allowed to callus for about 1 week under moist conditions (50-60°F (10-15°C)) before planting.
Common Fig (Ficus carica) - Pest
Gophers are particularly fond of fig tree roots, and have the potential to damage and kill large plants. One method to prevent damage by gophers is by planting the fig tree in a large aviary wire basket. Birds feed on the fruit, and nematodes have been known to infect the roots causing stunting to occur. Some fruit beetles also cause problems, and they will normally enter the ripening fruit through the eye. In general, the best way to keep an orchard healthy is to remove fallen fruits and refrain from planting fig trees near citrus plants. Some diseases include mosaic virus, fig canker, and smut.
Common Fig (Ficus carica) - Interesting facts
Ficus carica is native to western Asia. It was then distributed by humans to the Mediterranean. Figs were one of the first fruits to be cultivated by humans.
Common Fig (Ficus carica) - Soil and irrigation
When young, the fig trees should be provided with regular waterings until they are fully established. In dry climates, the mature trees will need deep waterings every 1-2 weeks or more. Figs planted in deserts may require more frequent waterings. To conserve moisture around the trees, mulch the surrounding soil. If water is insufficient, the leaves will turn yellow and begin to drop. Moreover, fruit will not develop, and the plants will be more susceptible to damage from pests and diseases. In many cases, lack of water will kill the plant. Replace the soil in container grown plants every three years.
