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Fig 'Black Italian'

7-Gallon

Height: 10-15 feet tall.
Spread: 8-12 feet.
Sunlight: Full sun.
Hardiness Zone: 7a.
Other Names: Ficus carica 'Black Italian'

Description:
A classic fig variety known for its rich, sweet flavor and high productivity. 'Black Italian' produces medium to large figs with dark purple to black skin and a deep red, honeyed interior. This cold-hardy and vigorous variety thrives in warm climates and can also be grown in containers in cooler regions for winter protection.

Edible Qualities:
Fig 'Black Italian' is prized for its smooth texture and honey-sweet flavor. It produces a reliable crop in late summer to early fall, making it a favorite for fresh eating and preserving.

The fruit is most often used in the following ways:
- Fresh Eating
- Drying
- Baking
- Jams & Preserves
- Salads

Features & Attributes:
Fig 'Black Italian' showcases deeply lobed, dark green foliage that adds a lush, tropical look to any landscape. It produces an abundance of medium to large figs that ripen to a deep purple-black hue with soft, red interiors. The tree's naturally spreading, bushy growth habit makes it an excellent choice for home orchards and edible landscapes.

This is a deciduous tree with a moderate growth rate. It is self-fertile, meaning it does not require another fig tree for fruit production.

Aside from its primary use as an edible, Fig 'Black Italian' is suitable for the following landscape applications:
- Edible Landscaping
- Small Orchards
- Container Gardening

Planting & Growing:
Fig 'Black Italian' will grow to be about 10-15 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 8-12 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 3-4 feet from the ground. It grows at a moderate rate and, under ideal conditions, can be expected to live for 50 years or more.

This tree thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during dry periods. Pruning after fruiting helps maintain its shape and encourages better fruit production. A layer of mulch around the base helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. In colder climates, container-growing or winter protection is recommended.

Additional Characteristics:
- Self-Fertile
- Late-Season Ripening
- Cold Hardy
- High-Yielding
- Excellent for Fresh Eating & Drying