What is Common fig?
The common fig, Ficus carica, has broad leaves and an unusual enclosed flowering structure. Cultivars are grown for fresh and dried figs.
Botany and life cycle
1. Identity and native range Ficus carica belongs to Moraceae and is associated with western Asia and the Mediterranean. Long cultivation has spread it to many warm regions. 2. How to recognize it It has broad, often lobed deciduous leaves. The edible structure is a fleshy enclosure lined with many tiny flowers rather than a simple single fruit. 3. Flowering and reproduction Reproductive systems differ by cultivar. Some depend on specialist fig wasps, while certain edible cultivars develop figs without pollination.
Ecology, cultivation and uses
4. Habitat and ecology It grows in sunny warmth. Ripe figs feed birds and other animals, which may disperse seeds. 5. Cultivation and care Provide drainage, sun and water during establishment. Allow room for roots and branches; protect from hard frost where needed. 6. Uses and cautions Figs are eaten fresh or dried but bruise easily. Milky sap from leaves and branches can irritate skin in some people.