Plant field guide
Fig Tree
Mediterranean tree with dramatic large lobed leaves and sweet honey-flavored fruit. 'Chicago Hardy' and 'Celeste' are the most cold-tolerant varieties for northern growers.
Growing requirements
- Scientific name
- Ficus carica
- Sun
- full sun
- Water
- moderate
- Height
- 72 in (183 cm) – 240 in (610 cm)
- Spread
- 72 in (183 cm) – 240 in (610 cm)
- Spacing
- Not recorded
- Hardiness zones & minimum temperature
- USDA 7–10; average annual extreme minimum from 0°F (-17.8°C). Hardiness does not predict local frost dates.
- Difficulty
- moderate
Planting & seasonal timing
Northern Hemisphere planting months: not yet verified in our database.
Northern Hemisphere pruning months: March.
For the Southern Hemisphere, these seasonal windows shift approximately six months. Check your local frost forecast, soil temperature, and species requirements; calendar months are not a guarantee of planting safety.
Self-fertile - only one tree needed. Can grow in containers and overwinter indoors. In zone 6, wrap or bury for winter. Minimal pest issues.
Pruning
Prune in late winter. Remove dead wood and shape. Can be kept compact with annual pruning. Fruiting occurs on new and old wood depending on variety.
Fertilizer
Balanced (10-10-10) or organic
Early spring
Mulch
3-4 inches of organic mulch. Protect roots in winter in marginal zones.