Ficus carica Desert King - 3ltr pot

The 'Desert King' fig (Ficus carica 'Desert King') is a popular fig variety known for reliably producing a large, high-quality early (breba) crop, particularly in cooler climates where the main crop may not ripen. It is a self-pollinating (parthenocarpic) fig for its breba crop, making it a dependable choice for home growers. 

Key Characteristics

• Fruit: Large, yellow-green (or lime green) figs with a contrasting, rich red or strawberry-pink interior flesh. The fruit is described as aromatically sweet and very juicy, with berry and honey undertones.
• Ripening Period: The valuable breba crop ripens early in mid-summer (around July). The second, main crop forms later but usually requires pollination by the fig wasp to ripen, which is why it is often only the breba crop that is successful in most regions outside of specific parts of California.
• Growth Habit: It is a vigorous, fast-growing, deciduous tree that can reach 15 to 25 feet in height and width if left unpruned, though it can be maintained as a smaller bush or trained as a fan.
• Hardiness: The tree is fairly frost-resistant, generally hardy to USDA zones 7b-10, and can tolerate temperatures down to around -15°C (5°F) with proper winter protection.
• Pollination: The breba crop is produced without needing pollination (parthenocarpic).
• Maintenance: It is a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant once established. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil and benefits from root restriction (e.g., in a container or a lined planting pit) to encourage fruit production over vegetative growth.