Ficus carica (common fig)

Ficus carica, common fig

Ornamental, fruit tree. A medium to fast-growing tree, that naturally forms dense thickets. A shrub (10-15’ tall) or small tree (15-30’ tall). It has attractive foliage and edible fruit. Smooth silver-ish bark forms on large trees.

The fruit (fig) ripens in late summer or fall on new wood. A lesser crop may appear in spring on new wood in some areas. Fruits develop without cross-pollination.

One of the first cultivated trees in the world.  Figs are nutritious and rich in fiber, potassium, calcium, and iron. The fruits can be eaten fresh off the tree, dried, and cut up in various dishes, including salads, used as an ingredient for fresh smoothies, added to cheese plates, or to dips. Also, often used in pastries, jams, and preserves.