Full Sun
Easy care
Moderate watering
Tender
13b
USDA zone
18°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
7m | Max | 7m |
2m | Min | 5m |
Fruiting
spring
summer
autumn
winter
Southern Black figs ripen in Summer. Figs are ripe when the skin changes colour and the fruit becomes less firm. The fruit bruises easily - pick before they are fully ripe, but not too early - they will only fully ripen on the tree.
Fig 'Southern Black' Overview
Figs are small deciduous trees with large leathery leaves. Southern Black produces elongated fruit with a dark purple skin and dark cherry coloured flesh.
Common problems with Fig 'Southern Black'
Fig stem borer and birds! Remove trees with Fig Mosaic Virus(dappled yellow spots on the green leaves).
Fig 'Southern Black' Companion Plants
Shade loving plants
How to propagate Fig 'Southern Black'
Cuttings
Make long (30-40cm cuttings) during Winter when dormant. Plant them deep and allow to grow the following Spring.
Seed
Seeds are often spread by birds or animals that ate the fruit. Sow during Winter, but expect germination only in Spring or Summer.
Special features of Fig 'Southern Black'
Attracts birds
Birds love the delicious fruit.
Attracts useful insects
Pollinated by fig wasp.
Drought resistant
Pot plant
Use a large container.
Wet sites
Grow happily along streams and rivers.
Hedge plant
Fig trees can be espaliered into a interesting hedge screen.
Other uses of Fig 'Southern Black'
Culinary
Edible
Figs are used fresh, dried or preserved. The edible fruit is actually fused flowers with their seed.
Medicinal
Figs are high in fibre and essential minerals like Calsium, Magnesium, Copper, Manganese and Vitamins.