Ficus carica is an Asian species of flowering plant in the mulberry family, known as the common fig or just the fig. It is the source of the fruit also called the fig and as such is an important crop in those areas where it is grown commercially. Native to the Middle East and western Asia, it has been sought out and cultivated since ancient times and is now widely grown throughout the world, both for its fruit and as an ornamental plant.
It grows wild in dry and sunny locations with deep and fresh soil, and in rocky locations that are at sea level to 1,700 metres in elevation.
The plant tolerates seasonal drought, and the Middle Eastern and Mediterranean climates are especially suitable to it. Situated in a favorable habitat, mature specimens can grow to considerable size as large, dense, shade trees. Its aggressive root system precludes its cultivation in many urban locations, yet in nature this characteristic helps the plant to root in the most inhospitable locations.
The edible fig is one of the first plants that were cultivated by humans. Figs can be eaten fresh or dried, and used in jam-making. Most commercial production is in dried or processed forms, since the ripe fruit does not transport well, and once picked does not keep well.Fresh figs are in season from August through to early October. Fresh figs used in cooking should be plump and soft, and without bruising or splits.
Unripe figs in a tree with natural leaves background.
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