Higuera Negra

Ficus carica or Fig Tree

It is a small-sized tree or shrub from the Moraceae family, one of the many species of the Ficus genus. Native to Asia. It grows between 3 and 10 meters in height. Its fruit is edible and has two harvests: in June and July it produces brevas (early figs), and in August, September, and October, it produces figs.

Main characteristics

• Scientific name: Ficus carica
• Family: Moraceae (like the mulberry)
• Origin: Western Asia, but spread since ancient times around the Mediterranean and the world.
• Fruit: The fig, sweet, fleshy, edible. Can be fresh or dried.
• Height: Up to 10 meters, although often kept shorter.
• Leaves: Large, lobed shape, deep green color.
• Trunk: Twisted with gray bark.
• Growth: Fast, drought-resistant. Does not need much care.

Cultivation and care

• Ideal climate: Mediterranean, warm and dry.
• Watering: Moderate, avoiding waterlogging; tolerates drought but prefers some water in summer.
• Soil: Well-drained, though not very demanding.
• Propagation: By cuttings or stakes.
• Pruning: Late winter pruning to control size and encourage fruit production.
• Fertilization: Moderate; can grow well without many nutrients if the soil is reasonably fertile.