The Black Mission Fig Tree is a classic and productive variety, known for its large, dark purple fruit with sweet, pink flesh. These figs are perfect for fresh eating, drying, and making preserves. This vigorous tree thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, producing two harvests per year: an early breba crop and a main crop in late summer. Black Mission is self-fruitful and grows well in a variety of climates, making it a reliable choice for home orchards. With its exceptional flavor and high yield, this fig tree is a perennial favorite.

Standard

• Zones: 7-9
• Chill hours: 100
• Harvest: August 10 to November 5
• Looks: Large, purplish-black skin over strawberry red flesh.
• Personality: Rich flavored fig, good fresh, dried, or canned.
• Facts of note: The favorite fig variety. Heavy bearing, long-lived tree, good on coast and inland. Well adapted to California, as it originated in the Spanish missions of the Golden State.
• Pollination: Self-fruitful.

The Black Mission Fig Tree: A Unique Fruit-Bearing Beauty

The Black Mission Fig Tree, known scientifically as Ficus carica 'Black Mission,' is a captivating and fruitful addition to any garden. With its striking appearance, deliciously sweet figs, and unique characteristics, this fig tree stands out in the world of fruit-bearing trees.

Appearance and Growth

The Black Mission Fig Tree is a sight to behold with its distinctive appearance. It typically grows to a height of 15-30 feet and has a spreading canopy that provides ample shade. The leaves are large, deeply lobed, and lush green, making this tree an attractive addition to your landscape.

One of the most distinguishing features of this fig tree is its dark, almost black, purplish-black fruit, which grows to about 2-2.5 inches in length. The fruit is pear-shaped with a slightly tapered neck, giving it an elegant and unique appearance compared to other fig varieties.

Fruit Flavor and Taste

The Black Mission Fig Tree is celebrated for its delectable fruit. The figs produced by this tree are known for their rich and sweet flavor. When they ripen, the skin turns from green to a deep purple-black, indicating their readiness for picking. The flesh inside is juicy, with a honey-like sweetness that makes them a favorite among fig enthusiasts.

The taste of Black Mission figs is often described as a harmonious blend of sugary sweetness and mild acidity, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Whether enjoyed fresh off the tree, incorporated into salads, desserts, or preserves, these figs are a culinary delight.

Unique Characteristics

Compared to other fig tree varieties, the Black Mission Fig Tree offers several unique characteristics that set it apart.

1. Fruit Appearance: The striking dark purple-black color of the Black Mission figs distinguishes them from the green or brown varieties. This unique hue adds an element of intrigue and sophistication to both the tree and the fruit.

2. Versatility: Black Mission figs are versatile in the kitchen. They can be enjoyed fresh or used in various culinary creations, from appetizers and salads to jams, preserves, and desserts. Their complex flavor profile lends itself well to a wide range of dishes.

3. Adaptability: These fig trees are known for their adaptability to different climates and soil types. They can thrive in a variety of conditions, making them suitable for cultivation in diverse regions.

4. Disease Resistance: Black Mission Fig Trees exhibit good resistance to common fig tree diseases and pests, making them relatively low-maintenance and easy to care for.

5. Fruit Production: These trees are prolific fruit bearers, providing an abundant harvest each year. With the right care, you can expect a bountiful supply of figs that will satisfy your taste buds and can be shared with friends and family.

The Black Mission Fig Tree is a remarkable addition to any garden or orchard. Its striking appearance, sweet and versatile fruit, and unique characteristics make it a standout choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Whether you're drawn to its elegant foliage, the allure of its dark purple-black figs, or the culinary possibilities it offers, the Black Mission Fig Tree is a fruit-bearing beauty that deserves a place in your garden.

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Sub-tropical, drought tolerant fruit tree. Fig trees are possibly the very first domesticated fruit. There is evidence of fig cultivation as early as 4,000 B.C. The sweetest figs develop when the daytime temperature regularly exceeds 95°F. Figs thrive in most soil types, as long as it's well-drained, and they will fruit in a variety of climates. Fig trees need hardly any cold period to produce fruit. Mature fig trees are hardy to 15°F. Will re-grow from roots if winter-killed.

Mature standard trees grow to 25' tall and 40' wide if not pruned, semi-dwarf trees can get 12-15' tall. Figs need warm soil for their roots to start growing. Figs do not like to be planted as bare-roots and are difficult to establish, so we sell these No. 1 size trees (about 1/4"-3/8" caliper) in pots (4" x 4" x 9") to enhance their survival rate. Trees are 1 year old and should begin to fruit in same year you plant them.

See our article How to Plant a Fig Tree for more details.

Cannot ship to the following states: HI, AK, PR, GU, VI

Shipping Weight: 5.5 lb

Dimensions: 35.9"L x 3.9"W x 3.9"H

• Potted
• Self-fruitful
• Suited to Warmer Climates