Fig Tree Ronde De Bordeaux - Ficus carica

The Ronde de Bordeaux Fig Tree, is a very hardy, vigorous, and self-fertile variety. This Fig Tree is unifereous, producing abundantly in one go in August-September depending on the amount of sunlight. The fruits have a black skin, small size, rounded shape, juicy red flesh, sweet flavour, and a slight strawberry fragrance. They are highly appreciated when eaten fresh, cooked, or dried. The Fig is a delightful summer fruit with numerous virtues and nutritional benefits. Its average development and remarkable architecture, as well as its unique foliage, make the Ronde de Bordeaux Fig Tree a highly decorative and charming shrub. Plant in autumn-winter, frost-free (or in spring for colder regions).

Originally 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 4 metres in height and has a somewhat twisted trunk and a bushy habit. The deciduous leaves are rough and hairy, reaching up to 25 cm (10in) in length, with three to seven lobes of variable shape. The underside of the leaf is velvety and shows prominent veins. The stems, leaves, and fruits contain a white latex that can be irritating. The wood, with its smooth gray bark, is soft, spongy, and hollow. The spreading roots of the fig tree are powerful.

The Ronde de Bordeaux Fig Tree produces abundant fruits with a thin almost black purple skin and red flesh. The flesh is juicy and has a sweet and fragrant flavor. There are two types: unifereous varieties that produce a single harvest per year, usually in early autumn, and biferous varieties that bear fruit twice a year, with figs called 'fig-flowers' in the summer on the previous year's branches and figs developing normally in autumn on the current year's wood.

Among all the varieties of Fig Trees, the Ronde de Bordeaux Fig Tree is a unifereous variety that produces abundantly in one go in August-September depending on the amount of sunlight, with fruits weighing about 30 to 40 g. Several harvests are required to pick the figs when they are fully ripe and to enjoy them at their best. The Ronde de Bordeaux or Early Barcelona Fig Tree is a self-fertile and parthenocarpic variety, meaning it can produce fruit without pollination. It does not require other fig trees and does not rely on the blastophage, the fig tree's sole pollinating insect, which is too sensitive to survive in cold climates.

Sun-ripened figs can be enjoyed fresh, revealing their full flavour and creaminess. They can also surprise and enhance sweet dishes such as tarts, clafoutis, and compotes, as well as savory dishes when paired with goat cheese, cured ham, or foie gras. They also make a great accompaniment to poultry or white meat. The delicate and pronounced flavor of figs pairs well with honey. They also complement sweet fruits such as cherries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, currants, blueberries, and grapes. Among fruits for making jam, figs have a prominent place with their delicate and rich taste, offering a very sweet flavour.

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 can 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 a pleasant shaded area, especially during summer heatwaves. Plant the Fig Tree against a wall that will protect it from cold during harsh winters, with a south or southwest exposure, alongside the Pomegranate Tree, the White Mulberry Tree, and the Japanese Medlar in warmer regions. In cooler regions, it can be associated with the Quince Tree, Akebia quinata, and Feijoa, which are also hardy and exotic. Consider its dimensions at maturity to determine the planting distance. Although the roots do not damage modern structures, they can cause damage to walls made of dry stone or weak mortars, in the old-fashioned way.

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