Discover the exquisite taste of homegrown figs with the Ficus 'Flanders' Fig, an Ira Condit Selection. Whether grown as a deciduous shrub or petite tree, it is a standout in the garden. While fig trees may not boast visible flowers, their tiny flowers develop within the fruits, they are still a captivating addition to an edible garden or landscape. 'Flanders' yields two crops of mouth-watering figs annuallya modest breba (spring) crop and a more abundant late crop. The medium-sized figs are characterized by a long, slender neck; palatable tan-colored (greenish yellow) skin with violet stripes; and amber-hued flesh that's renowned for its superior rich flavor. These figs are ready to be savored fresh, dried, canned, or preserved and are a great source of calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and iron.
The 'Flanders' Fig is a versatile addition to your garden, serving as an impressive accent or specimen. It can also be trained as an espalier or nurtured as a container plant. When planted in the ground, it grows robustly, reaching a height of 20 to 30 feet at maturity, yet can be pruned to a desired shape and size. However, it's worth noting that a heavy winter pruning may eliminate the breba crop. When grown in a container, the tree will be considerably smaller but will still produce full-sized figs.
As one of the earliest fruit trees to be cultivated, the Ficus carica, or common fig, is native to regions spanning from Asiatic Turkey to northern India and is widely grown in Mediterranean countries. This temperate species thrives in cool coastal climates with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. However, 'Flanders' is heat-tolerant and grows equally well in hot inland climates. In colder climates, plant your ficus in a warm, dry location and apply generous mulch before winter.
Fig trees are among the easiest fruits to grow, demanding full sun during the growing season, dry weather during fruiting, and some winter chilling. They adapt well to a broad range of soil types and pH ranges, but they favor well-drained loam enriched with organic matter and a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. Fig trees are drought-tolerant and usually content with natural rainfall most of the year once established, making them an excellent choice for xeriscapes and water-wise gardens. However, they prefer consistently moist soil when fruiting. This tree is self-fertile and starts bearing fruit 1 to 2 years after planting without requiring pollen from other varieties.
Harvest your figs by allowing them to dry on the tree and gathering them after they fall, or pick them ripe and dry. Regular turning during the drying process enhances the quality of the fruit.
This fig tree will ship at the appropriate planting time based on your growing zone. This fig tree does not ship in December or January. Plant height is 18-36" when shipped.
