Fig, Common Fig

Ficus carica, also known as Common Fig or Pastilière, is a fruiting tree from the Middle East and Western Asia. It is well known in the UK, where it appeared as early as the 1600s and was cultivated for its fruit production.

The foliage of Fig is large, bright green, and deeply lobed. It tends to appear very late in spring in the UK. The fruits develop throughout the summer, appearing as small green fruits by early August that gradually swell and ripen over the coming months, turning purple/brown in colour.

Ficus carica is a small, rounded tree that performs well in the UK on most free-draining soils. However, it prefers a sheltered, south-facing position. 

Fruiting can be maximised by planting against a wall to amplify the warmth and further increase shelter.

Fig trees are a lovely addition to any sheltered garden. They provide an interesting architectural shape compared to the more common fleshy fruiting trees available, such as Apples, Pear, and Plums.

Mature Height: 3-7m

Common names

Fig, Common Fig

Height of tree

3-7m

Soil type

Well drained, Will tolerate most soil types

Shape

Rounded

Foliage Colour

Green

Fruit and Nut

Fig

Location

Garden

Genus

Ficus