Fig 'Cape Black'
Ficus carica
Also known as
Coffee Fig, Kaapse Swartvy (Afr.), Fig, Brown turkey fig, Common fig
Photo by CandideUK (All rights reserved)
Full Sun
Easy care
Moderate watering
Tender
8a-10b
USDA zone
-12°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
4m | Max | 4m |
2.5m | Min | 2.5m |
10 years to reach maturity
Fruiting
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
Figs are ripe when the skin changes colour and the fruit becomes less firm. The fruit bruises easily so pick before they are fully ripe. Green figs are often used to make green fig preserve - pick those early summer. In the UK, Pick fruit before the 1st frosts & bring inside to ripen
More images of Fig 'Cape Black'
Fig 'Cape Black' Overview
Figs are small deciduous trees with large leathery leaves. Also known as the Cape black fig, this species produces small edible fruit with purple to black skin. The flesh is dark straw coloured. Figs were cultivated from biblical times and this species produces a milky sap which is an irritant to human skin.
Common problems with Fig 'Cape Black'
How to propagate Fig 'Cape Black'
Seed
Sowing time - Winter; Spacing - 6m; Sowing depth - take long 30-40cm cuttings and put a third to half under sandy soil; Germination time - 1-3 months;
Cuttings
Hardwood
Layering
Air layering in summer.
Special features of Fig 'Cape Black'
Attracts birds
Attracts useful insects
Autumn colour
Other uses of Fig 'Cape Black'
This fruiting tree is frequently planted in wall side borders or along trellis, it can be planted as low maintenance tree for architectural interest in urban/Mediterranean settings.
Medicinal
Edible
Leaves and fruit are edible. Fruit is used fresh, dried or preserved.