Fig Trees

Fig trees or Ficus carica originated in northern Asia are usually associated with the warm sunny climate of the Mediterranean region where they are prolific.

We have put together a selection especially adapted to the UK climate. They will thrive even in the cooler northern regions, although here they will need to be grown in warm sheltered spots, ideally against a sunny south-facing wall or under glass.

None of our Figs are grafted so their vigour is determined by the variety not by the rootstock. In the UK they will be vigorous and you may want to restrict their roots by container growing to keep the tree smaller and more productive.

Figs can be grown fan trained against a wall, grown to their natural bushy form in the open or even trained as standard. They're easy to grow and requiring minimal pruning or attention.

Although often referred to as the fruit, Figs are more like the flowers of the plant and so will develop without pollination.

You can find mention of them across the world throughout history: In the bible, Jesus curses one for not producing fruit for him as he passed (not from primrose) and Plato describes their use as the sole diet of the athletes at Olympia who used their high sugar content to boost their energy levels.

Figs also contain a host of vitamins and minerals and are renowned for their health benefits including aiding digestion, lowering cholesterol and boosting weight loss.

It is their sweet tasting, succulent fruit along with their hardiness and ability to thrive in a container, against a wall or in the garden which have made them a sought after tree throughout the centuries.