olive fruits with leaves, lime-yellow petioles and brown branches

fig

Ficus carica 'Celeste'

Also Known As - garden fig
The fig (Ficus carica 'Celeste') is truly amazing. Its unique purple-bronze foliage gives it a shimmering effect in the sun, while its large, sweet fruit is an added bonus. The delicate, light-purple flowers draws pollinators near for a sweet feast. Its an excellent snack for birds, mammals, and people because of its high nutritional content. This tough tree is drought tolerant and can handle partial shade, making it an ideal addition to any garden. Ficus carica 'Celeste' grows quickly and is an excellent choice for edible landscaping projects.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Air Layering Propagation,Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

7

Flowers:

Green Flowers In Spring

Sun:

full sun

Soil:

Well-drained

Fruits:

Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Indoors:

Yes

watering

For a fig plant species (Ficus carica 'Celeste'), water deeply and thoroughly on a weekly basis. Water the plant slowly and steadily, until you see that some water is coming out of the drainage holes. Also, make sure to check the soil by sticking your finger in it every 2 days or so, to ensure it is still moist. If it feels dry, water the plant until it is evenly moist. It is important to keep the soil moist, but not soggy, as too much or too little watering can lead to plant health problems.

sunlight

Fig (Ficus carica 'Celeste') plants should be placed in an area that receives full sun, at least 6 to 8 hours a day of direct sunlight for optimal growth and fruit production. The sun should hit the plant directly throughout the day for best results. Generally, the best time for sunlight is between 10 am and 4 pm, although this varies depending on the season. During the summer, the best time is likely earlier in the day before the sun gets too hot and during the winter, the sun is best for your fig tree later in the day when the sun is less intense.

pruning

Figs (Ficus carica 'Celeste') should be given a light pruning each year usually in early spring. This is to help the tree maintain a desired shape and promote air flow and more fruit production. If you decide to give your fig tree an extensive pruning, wait until early summer after the fig tree has finished fruiting. Cut off the tips of branches that are getting too large or have some dead wood. Prune off any branches that are growing too far from the main structure of the tree, or interfere with the shape and desired appearance. Removing more than 1-third of the branches should be avoided.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Fig trees typically start flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and June.

Starts Flowering

Fig trees typically start flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and June.

Harvest Fruit

s The best time to start harvesting Ficus carica 'Celeste' figs is typically in late June or early July.

Hardiness Map

FAQ

Is the fig tree a deciduous plant?

Yes, the fig tree is a deciduous plant. This means that each year, they lose their leaves and go into a dormant state during the cold months. Generally, the leaves will drop in early fall and will begin to grow again in the spring when the weather heats up.

Are there different varieties of fig trees?

Yes, there are different varieties of fig trees. There are over 750 species, including the common edible fig as well as ornamental figs such as the Lebanese and Tiger Eye figs. Figs can be found in many climates and soils, with some that are semi-tropical and cold hardy. Fruits can range from green to yellow to purple, and mature size can range from dwarf varieties to those that reach 30 feet tall. The most common fig in the United States is the Smyrna fig variety.

Could fig trees tolerate colder climates?

Fig trees generally do not tolerate colder climates, as they prefer warm temperatures and thrive best in acidic, well-drained soil. Fig trees can tolerate some frost and cold temperatures, but if temperatures go lower than 20 degrees Fahrenheit, the tree will likely die. If fig trees in colder regions must be grown, some protection from cold winter temperatures will be needed, such as providing additional insulation and mulch around the tree, and ensuring the tree is in an area with adequate airflow to keep temperatures moderate.

Could fig trees tolerate colder climates?

Yes, certain varieties of fig trees are able to tolerate cold climates. Depending on the particular variety, some fig trees can withstand temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Many cold-tolerant fig trees will remain dormant over winter and will start blooming when the temperature rises. Cold-hardy figs can be planted in USDA hardiness zones 4-11, with the best growth results typically seen in the warmer parts of the zone.

Do fig trees have invasive root systems?

In general, fig trees do not have particularly invasive root systems. Depending on the climate and soil conditions, the fig tree's root system can spread out 6-12 feet from the trunk. In contrast to trees with invasive root systems, such as silver maple, which can spread their roots up to 40 feet away from the trunk, the fig tree is comparatively restrained in its root growth. Furthermore, many fig trees are grown in large pots or containers because of their smaller root system, making them popular for those who have limited garden space.

Do fig trees produce flowers?

Yes, fig trees produce flowers. They produce small, yellowish flowers that have petals that are fused at the base. These flowers grow in specialized clusters called synconia, which are housed in hollow, fleshy receptacles known as syconium. These flowers mostly self-pollinate or are pollinated by small wasps, although wind can blow some of their pollen to other flowers for cross-pollination. After pollination, the flowers develop into tiny fruits that eventually grow into figs.

Could fig trees be grown in containers?

Yes, fig trees can absolutely be grown in containers. Growing fig trees in a container offers many benefits, such as portability, easy maintenance and being able to bring the tree indoors during winter months. Fig trees grow best in well-draining soil, and their roots need plenty of room. When selecting a pot for a fig tree, opt for one with a diameter of 24 inches or more. Additionally, the tree should be watered regularly and allowed to drain completely before any additional water is added. When potted fig trees are given the right care, they will reward their owners with plenty of figs each season.

Is the fig tree drought-resistant?

Yes, the fig tree is a drought-resistant plant. These trees are extremely hardy and resilient, and they are adapted to a variety of climates. The fig tree can tolerate periods of drought, and it will also tolerate periods of wetter conditions. This tree is used to survive in severe heat and humidity in tropical and desert conditions. Its deep root system also helps it to access deep water reserves, and its thick bark and extended foliage help to retain moisture. This makes it ideal for areas where water is scarce, and the tree can survive with little water for extended periods.