Ficus carica ‘Deanna’

Family

Moraceae

Origin

South Africa

Description

The Fig is a small deciduous tree or large shrub that grows up to 7–10 metres tall with large leathery leaves. Its fragrant leaves are 12–25 centimetres long and 10–18 centimetres wide, and are deeply lobed (three or five lobes).

Non-showy greenish flowers forms in spring inside hollow receptacles near the branch growing tips. The fruit (edible fig) develops within each receptacle. The fig fruit is unique, unlike most ‘fruits’ in which the structure is matured ovary tissue, and the fig’s edible structure is actually a stem tissue. The main fruit crop ripens in November to January

‘Deanna’ is a very large fig variety with fruits over 100 grams being typical. The fruit has a green exterior and an amber to light red pulp with a sweet taste. It was bred to be resistant to cracking and splitting.

Tree train or espalier in interesting shapes to make a pretty hedge screen. A good choice for the home garden.

Birds love the delicious fruit. 

 

Environment

Ficus carica  should only be grown in sheltered location in warm climate.  prefers areas having high summer temperatures, plenty of sunshine and moderate irrigation. Fig tree grows best when the temperature range is between 15°C to 21°C . The shape, size, colour of the skin and pulp quality are affected by climate. 

Fig is one of the most drought and salt tolerant plant. It can tolerate a fairly high levels of chloride salt or sulphate. Soils having pH value of 7 to 8, medium to heavy, well drained, calcareous is suitable for growing fig tree.

It prefers to grow in average to moist conditions, and shouldn’t be allowed to dry out. 

Landscape Uses

Ornamental or fruit tree