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Plant Profiles / Fig tree
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Fig tree
Ficus carica · Common fig, edible fig
A deciduous fruit tree with bold, lobed leaves and sweet summer figs. Compact varieties grow well in large pots on sunny balconies.
Full sunLight
Twice a week in summerWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
At least 6–8 hours of sun.
Water
Twice a week in summer
DryWet
Water deeply in summer; keep drier in winter.
Humidity
Low to average
LowHigh
Prefers dry summers.
Temperature
-10–40°C (14–104°F)
CoolWarm
Hardy to moderate frost when dormant.
Growth
Moderate, tree
SlowFast
Grows 3–6 m; 1.5–2.5 m in pots.
Soil
Well-drained
LeanRich
Average soil or quality potting mix.
Fertiliser
Spring
RarelyOften
Light feed in spring; too much nitrogen reduces fruit.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Leaves and sap can irritate pets' mouths and skin.
About this plant
Figs have been cultivated around the Mediterranean for thousands of years. They thrive on heat, sun and restricted roots, so pots suit them well. Most modern varieties fruit without pollination.
Best spots
Sunny balconies, courtyards, large pots and warm walls.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Ficus carica |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Origin | Mediterranean & Western Asia |
| Plant type | Deciduous fruit tree |
| Mature size | 1.5–6 m |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Foliage | Large lobed leaves |
| Flowers | Hidden inside the fruit |
| Toxicity | Leaves and sap toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Hardwood cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Harvest
Prune
Fertilise
Dormant
HarvestPruneFertiliseDormant
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Fruit drops early | Dry soil or stress. |
| Fruit splits | Uneven watering or rain. |
| Birds eat the fruit | Net the tree. |
| Leaf rust | Remove fallen leaves. |
| No fruit | Too young or too much nitrogen. |
Common questions
Can I grow a fig in a pot?
Yes, figs fruit well with restricted roots.
When are figs ripe?
When soft, drooping and slightly wrinkled at the neck.
Do I need two trees?
No, most are self-fertile.
Is the sap irritating?
Yes, wear gloves.
