TreesFicus carica
Common Fig
The common fig is an atmospheric Mediterranean tree with large, deeply lobed leaves and a characteristic broad crown. The hidden flowers sit inside the fig fruit and are not visible from outside. Given a warm, sheltered position, the tree produces sweet, juicy figs from summer to autumn. Surprisingly hardy with protection.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 300–600 cm
- Spread
- 300–500 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 7–11
- Family
- Moraceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- green
- Wildlife value
- birds, bees
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant against a warm, sheltered south-facing wall in well-drained soil. Restrict the root space with a root barrier or large container — this encourages fruit production. Water regularly as the fruits are swelling. Protect in winter with fleece in colder areas. Feed lightly in spring.
Pruning tips
Prune in late spring after the last frost. Remove dead, damaged and crossing branches. Keep the canopy open for air circulation and light penetration. Fruit grows on one- and two-year-old wood — prune judiciously. Never prune hard during severe winter; wait until spring.
Good companions
TreesOlea europaea
Olive Tree
The olive tree is a majestic, long-lived tree with distinctive silver-green foliage and a gnarled trunk that grows increasingly characterful with age. In warm climates it produces edible olives following a modest white bloom in June. As a container plant it can bring Mediterranean charm to cooler regions too.
ClimbersVitis vinifera
Grape Vine
The grape vine is a vigorous deciduous climber with graceful, palmate leaves and curling tendrils that cling to support structures. In summer clusters of white or blue grapes appear, depending on the cultivar. The foliage turns beautifully red to purple in autumn. Unrivalled both as a fruit plant and as a decorative pergola cover.
ShrubsLavandula angustifolia
English Lavender
Lavender is a beloved herb with aromatic silver-green foliage and purple-blue flower spikes. This evergreen plant blooms profusely from June to August and is remarkably drought-tolerant, attracting butterflies and bees to the garden.