Ficus carica ‘LSU Purple’ (Fig)

Ficus carica ‘LSU Purple’ is a notable fig variety, valued for its unique fruit, adaptability, and relatively easy care. Its combination of ornamental beauty, delicious fruit, and self-fertility makes it a favorite among both home gardeners and fruit enthusiasts.

Ficus carica ‘LSU Purple’: An In-depth Look

Native: Ficus carica is native to the Mediterranean region and parts of western and southern Asia.

Plant Type and Habit: This cultivar is a deciduous tree or large shrub, characterized by a vigorous and upright growth habit. It is adaptable and can be pruned and trained into various forms, making it versatile for different garden styles.

Size: ‘LSU Purple’ typically reaches a moderate size, usually around 8-10 feet in height and spread (240-300 cm). This manageable stature allows it to fit well in medium-sized gardens or orchards and makes it suitable for container growing.

Pollination: This Fig Tree is self-pollinating. This means it does not require another tree for cross-pollination to produce fruit, which is beneficial for gardeners with limited space.

Flowers: Fig trees possess a distinctive floral structure. Their flowers are inconspicuous, hidden within what appears to be the fruit (syconium). As the syconium matures, it develops into the fleshy and edible portion commonly recognized as the fig.

Fruits: The fruits of this variety are medium-sized with deep purple skin, a closed eye, and light strawberry-colored flesh. They are known for their sweet, rich flavor and good texture. The figs typically ripen in the late summer to early fall and are excellent for fresh eating, drying, or preserves.

Foliage: The foliage consists of large, thick, deeply lobed green leaves with a rough, textured surface.

Bark: The bark is smooth and gray, becoming slightly more textured with age.

Uses: Primarily cultivated for its delicious fruit, ‘LSU Purple’ is well-suited for fresh consumption, drying, and culinary use in jams and desserts. Due to its attractive appearance and manageable size, it is also often used as an ornamental plant in landscapes and gardens.

Hardiness: This variety is noted for its cold hardiness and is suitable for USDA zones 7-10. It can withstand colder temperatures better than many other fig varieties but will need protection in USDA zones 7.

Wildlife: Birds and other wildlife are attracted to the fruits, although this can sometimes lead to competition for the harvest.

Toxicity: The Fig tree sap contains compounds like furocoumarins and ficin, which can cause skin irritation or dermatitis in some individuals. The fig tree (leaves and sap) can be more problematic for pets, particularly dogs and cats. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal and dermal irritation.

Deer and Rabbit: Fig trees can be susceptible to damage from deer and rabbits, especially when young. Protective measures may be necessary in areas with high wildlife activity.

Invasiveness: Find where Ficus carica species is invasive in the United States. Discover beautiful U.S. native plant alternatives.

Growing and Caring for Common Fig

Light: Common Fig thrives in full sun. Ensure it receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sun daily for optimal growth and fruit production. While it can tolerate some partial shade, too much shade can reduce fruit yield and overall health of the plant.

Soil: Prefers rich, well-draining soil. It tolerates various soil types but performs best in soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.

Site: Site in a protected location (against a warm wall or fence) with annual root mulch. Fig trees are flexible enough to be easily espaliered against walls. Smaller fig trees may also be grown in a pot and temporarily brought indoors.

Watering: Regular watering is crucial, especially during fruit development. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to avoid overwatering.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in early spring. Figs don’t require heavy feeding; over-fertilization can reduce fruit yield.

Pruning: Remove 1/4 to 1/3 of older branches in early spring. Pruning also encourages new growth and increases fruit production.

Harvesting: Typically occurs when the fruit softens and droops slightly on the branch, indicating ripeness. The skin may change color, and a slight crack in the fruit often appears. Figs should be picked gently to avoid bruising. Harvest season varies but generally falls in late summer or early autumn, depending on the climate and variety.

Propagation: Commonly propagated by cuttings. Take hardwood cuttings in late winter and root them in moist soil.

Pests and Diseases: Watch for pests like aphids, scale insects, root-knot nematodes, spider mites, and mealybugs. Honey fungus, leaf spot, and rust occasionally occur. Maintain good air circulation and hygiene to prevent fungal diseases. Regular inspections help in early detection and treatment. Fruit drops can be messy.