Fig Tree Brunswick - Ficus carica

The Brunswick Fig is a very hardy, vigorous and self-fertile variety. This Fig tree is repeat fruiting, producing abundantly first in July and then again in September-October. The very large fruits, elongated in shape, with golden brown skin, juicy bright pink flesh and a sweet and fragrant flavour are highly appreciated when eaten fresh, cooked in recipes or dried. Its medium size and unique foliage make the Ficus carica Brunswick a very decorative and charming bush. Plant in autumn-winter frost-free (or in spring for colder regions).

Originating from regions with a warm temperate climate, ranging from the Mediterranean to Central Asia, the Fig tree belongs to the Moraceae family. Generally, it does not exceed three to four metres in height and has a fairly twisted trunk and a bushy habit. The deciduous leaves are rough and hairy, reaching up to 25 cm (10in) in length, and are divided into three to seven lobes with variable shapes. The underside of the leaf is velvety and shows prominent veins. The stems, leaves and fruits contain a white latex that can cause irritation. The wood, with its smooth grey bark, is soft, spongy and hollow. The trailing roots of the fig tree are powerful.

The Brunswick Fig produces abundantly fruits with brown skin marked with golden reflections. The flesh is juicy and has a sweet and fragrant flavour. The fruit contains few seeds. There are single fruiting varieties that produce a single abundant harvest, usually in early autumn, and repeat fruiting varieties that bear fruit twice a year. The figs appear in summer on the previous year's branches, and the normally developing figs appear in autumn on the current year's growth.

Among all the varieties of Fig trees, the Brunswick Fig is a repeat fruiting variety. It produces abundantly first in July large 'fig-flowers' weighing about 100 to 120 g, and then in October-November smaller figs weighing 60 to 80 g. This staggered fruiting ensures a harvest of delicious figs throughout the season. Harvesting requires multiple passes to pick the figs when fully ripe and enjoy them at their best. The Ficus carica Brunswick is a self-fertile and parthenocarpic variety, allowing it to bear fruit without pollination. It does not require other fig trees and does not rely on the blastophage, the only pollinating insect of the fig tree, which is too sensitive to cold climates to survive.

Sun-filled, figs can be enjoyed fresh, revealing their full flavor and smoothness. They can also surprise and enhance sweet dishes such as tarts, clafoutis, compotes, as well as savory dishes paired with goat cheese, cured ham or foie gras, or served alongside poultry or white meats. The delicate and pronounced flavour of the fig can be enhanced with honey. It also pairs very well with sweet fruits such as cherries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, currants, blueberries, and grapes. Among the fruits used for making jams, figs have a prominent place with their delicate and rich taste.

Rich in fibre, figs have laxative properties, and their seeds aid digestion. They are also rich in minerals, trace elements, and vitamin B. After harvest, to preserve the fig's aroma, it is not recommended to store them in the refrigerator, as the skin may suffer from humidity and condensation.

The Fig tree is often considered one of the most beautiful fruit trees. Its unique foliage gives it an ornamental aspect and provides pleasant shade during the summer heat. Plant the Fig tree sheltered by a wall to protect it from the cold during harsh winters, with a south or southwest exposure, alongside the Fruit-bearing Pomegranate, White Mulberry, and Japanese Medlar in the southern regions of our country. In the north, it can be associated with the Quince tree, Akebia quinata, and Feijoa, which are also hardy and exotic. Consider its mature dimensions to determine the planting distance. Although its roots do not damage modern constructions, they can cause damage to dry stone walls or walls built with weak mortar in the traditional way.

It is important to choose the right variety based on the climate, size of the garden, and desired use of the fruits.