Desert King Fig Ficus carica 'Desert King' #3
This versatile fig thrives in cool climates, producing a large early crop even in the absence of summer heat. May set a second fall crop in warmer regions. The exceptionally large, green-skinned fruit has strawberry flesh of excellent quality. An attractive, prolific tree for garden or landscape. Deciduous.
Prefers enriched, well-drained soil. Water deeply, regularly in first growing season to establish root system; once established, reduce frequency. Requires less water in fall and winter, more in growing season. Often root hardy to zones 5 and 6 with protection. Fertilize in early spring. Prune lightly in late winter to not remove the early forming spring crop.
DETAILS
| Average Size at Maturity | Quickly reaches 15 to 25 ft. tall and wide. |
|---|---|
| Bloom Time | Inconspicuous; prized for fruit and foliage. |
| Deciduous/ Evergreen | Deciduous |
| Flower Color | White |
| Foliage Color | Gray-green |
| Garden Style | Mediterranean, Rustic |
| Growth Habit | Rounded |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Landscape Use | Container, Espalier, Specimen, Coastal Exposure, Urban Garden, Kitchen Garden |
| Light Needs | Full sun |
| Special Feature | Easy Care, Edible, Showy Fruit, Sustainable, Tolerates Alkaline Soil, Tolerates Poor Soils, Waterwise, Fast Growing, Bird Friendly |
| Water Needs | Low |
| Watering Needs | Once established, water occasionally; more in extreme heat or containers. |
| Companion Plants | Rosemary (Rosmarinus); Grape (Vitis); Lavender (Lavandula); Raspberry (Rubus); Fragaria (Strawberry) |