Everything about the ancient plant fig (fig tree or fig tree).

Fig tree, or fig (lat. Fícus carica) is a prominent representative of the genus Ficus of the Mulberry family. The Latin name comes from the name of the birthplace of figs - ancient Caria in Asia Minor. It has many different names, the most popular of which are “common fig tree” or “wine berry”. Figs are widespread in countries with a subtropical climate, in Georgia, South Ossetia, in the mountains of Armenia, on the Absheron Peninsula, in the central regions of Azerbaijan, in the Carpathians, on the Black Sea coast of the Krasnodar Territory, Crimea and Abkhazia, as well as in countries Mediterranean.

An interesting fact about the fig tree: its fruit, the familiar fruit - the fig - is not a fruit at all, but a flower. Some other varieties of ficus bloom in a similar way.

In fact, the fruits of the fig tree are flowers, not fruits, as is commonly believed.

properties of fruits and leaves

The fig tree is recognized as one of the most ancient cultivated plants, the first mention of which is contained in the Bible.

Figs (also known as figs) are widely used as fresh food. canned and dried form. Fig fruits also make very tasty and healthy jam.

Due to its rich medicinal properties, figs have been used since ancient times as a remedy for colds. Fresh fruits are used as a remedy for coughs and throat diseases. Fig pulp has an excellent diaphoretic and antipyretic effect.

Figs are also high in iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. In addition, figs are indicated for palpitations and bronchial asthma. Dried fruits have a laxative effect on the body.

Dried figs are very useful for improving the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.

Growing in open ground

Throughout history cultivation Many varieties and varieties of this plant have been bred. To grow it, amateur gardeners are advised to choose self-pollinating varieties.

In addition, when choosing a variety, it is important to pay attention to how this or that variety will be adapted to the conditions of a particular region.

For example, in regions with a temperate climate it is better to plant winter-hardy figs. This variety will survive winter and frost in open ground without any problems.

Popular varieties among amateur gardeners include:

• Brunswick;
• Kadata;
• Crimean black;
• Dalmatian.

Planting: soil, location and lighting

The fig tree is a subtropical plant. This means that the plant loves the sun, heat, and does not like cold and strong wind. These features must be taken into account when choosing a place for planting in open ground. A well-lit place on the south side of the garden is best suited for this purpose. It is important that there are no tall buildings, buildings or trees with a lush crown nearby.

Figs are not capricious in their choice of soil. Almost any soil will do. The only need is sufficient moisture. Therefore, drainage at the bottom of the planting hole is done only under conditions of heavy clay soil. However, a light sandy substrate or perlite would be ideal for figs.

The prepared substrate can be fed with organic fertilizer. After this, the soil is poured in the form of a slide and the roots of the seedling are placed on top, and then they are covered with earth. The root collar is located on the surface.

In those regions where winter frosts are quite severe, it is recommended to plant the fig tree in trenches. The north side of the planting trench should be vertical. To protect it from shedding, you can use film or polycarbonate. The southern slope should be gentle to ensure direct sunlight.

You can plant a fig tree in open ground in the fall, as well as in the spring. In winter, the tree must be covered, and in case of severe frosts, it must be “relocated” to a greenhouse. This also applies to winter-hardy varieties.

Caring for figs in open ground

Outdoor care activities include the following procedures:

1. Watering should be regular and plentiful. When the soil dries out, there is a high probability that the plant will not bear fruit. The approximate frequency of watering is 8–12 times per season. In one go, you need to pour at least 1-2 medium-sized buckets into the soil. If drip irrigation is used, it is necessary to regularly check the soil moisture level.
2. Crown formation. Standard crown formation is popular among gardeners. The crown is formed from 3–4 uterine branches. In this case, the trunk usually reaches a height of about 60 cm. Shoots are cut off during the season (this also applies to the trunk). For 2–4 years after planting, the ends of the shoots and conductors are slightly trimmed. This causes the tree to develop more lateral branches. At the end of spring, you need to pincerate a shoot length of 50–70 cm. After this, once every 3-4 years you need to remove the root shoots and cut off the old branches.
3. Fertilizer. In spring, the fig tree can be fed with mineral fertilizers. To apply fertilizer to the soil, it is better to use the surface loosening method. You can also fertilize with infusion of manure.
4. Shelter. In the autumn, when the temperature begins to drop, and in the spring, when the temperature has not yet risen, the tree must be covered with a greenhouse. A greenhouse made of cellular polycarbonate is perfect for this purpose. It retains the desired temperature and humidity well, and is also quite durable. On especially warm and sunny days, it is recommended to open the greenhouse.

You can prepare figs for winter in the following way:

• Remove the autumn greenhouse;
• Press all branches to the ground;
• Place the board on the trench and cover it tightly with film;
• The entire structure must be covered with a layer of earth about 15 cm thick.

Growing and care at home

Not all of its varieties are suitable for growing a fig tree at home, but only low-growing and self-pollinating ones. These include:

• Shuisky;
• White Adriatic;
• Muason;
• Black Pearl ;
• Oglobin seedling;
• Gift to October;
• Dalmatica;
• Kadata.

Each of them is capable of bearing fruit twice a year, even at home. If you provide the necessary lighting and proper care, the fruits will be quite large and tasty.

Landing

Having chosen the right variety of figs, you also need to choose the right container for planting and soil.

As mentioned earlier, the fig tree is not picky about the choice of soil. For planting at home, the most common soil is suitable. You can mix it with ash or lime, but this is not necessary. You can use crushed eggshells as fertilizer or add a little peat.

Before planting the plant, the soil needs to be prepared. It needs to be steamed. This can be done in a microwave oven. You also need to steam the river sand. They are advised to lightly sprinkle the top layer of soil after planting.

It is better to take a small pot. At the bottom of the pot you need to make high-quality drainage and place part of it in advance prepared soil The soil needs to be moistened with water and a depression made. Next, the seedling is “seated” in a small hole and covered with the remaining soil and sand on top.

Transfer

During the first years of life, indoor figs are actively engaged in the development of a powerful root system. That is why it is recommended to replant the plant annually for 7 years into a larger pot. This is best done in the spring before the leaves bloom.

Then the transplant can be done once every 3-4 years. Also, do not forget about high-quality drainage at the bottom of the pot. And abundant watering after transplants.

Temperature, lighting And level humidity V indoors

All characteristics figs And peculiarities care behind this plant They say O volume, What figs – southern plant And Very loves solar light And increased humidity. Healthy plant And good fruiting 1 —2 times V year Can provide only thanks to compliance these two points.

IN room need to arrange tree on southern side And put pot closer To window. If such possibilities No, That good lighting Necessarily need to create artificially With with help phytolamp.
Humidity V indoors Also recommended support artificially With with help humidifiers.

It is best to place the pot of figs on the south side of the room next to the window.

Watering

Home fig tree loves Not only abundant And regular watering, But And frequent spraying trunks And leaves. For this will do warm water, But Not hot. If admit drying out soil, tree Maybe reset All leaves.

Important decrease intensity And frequency glaze in time fruiting tree. Redundant moisture Maybe do fruit watery And tasteless.

Trimming

Fig tree Fine reacts on pruning. That's why at neat And timely molding tree Can without labor give any desired form.

By using correct technique The fig tree can be trimmed into any shape.

Period peace

Practically each subtropical plant It has mine period peace. Figs – Not exception. For him period peace have to on interval With November By January.

IN period peace tree folds foliage. Tree need to put away V dark And cool place. Temperature V indoors must dress approximately from +15 before 0C. Also necessary gradually decrease number watering before minimum.

in spring begins awakening And transition V active period. After appearance first kidney plant need to endure V more illuminated place And start off renew regular watering.

Feeding and fertilizer

When plant goes over To active vital activity, A kidneys start to swell, V soil are being introduced alternately With two weeks in between phosphorus fertilizers And infusion manure.

Can on one's own cook mixture For fertilizers. For this need to dissolve 3 grams superphosphate V 1 liter water And boil solution on throughout 20 minutes. Bring quantity liquids before 1 liters, using boiled water. After this V mixture need to add 4 grams urea.

Two times V year, V beginning spring And V beginning summer, Can spray leaves tree special solution. This will allow save leaves aesthetic bright—green coloring. Solution For spraying getting ready from 1 liters boiled water And 2 grams iron vitriol.

Before the beginning fruiting Not will superfluous add feeding V form nitrogen fertilizers. Such procedure will contribute intensive emergence large fruits on tree.

Problems And illnesses

Fig tree though And Not especially capricious plant, But often subject to various diseases And attacks pests.

TO most frequent diseases figs relate:

1. Gray rot — on fruits figs appears white or grey raid With interspersed watery spots.
2. Fusarium — decay fetus from the inside.
3. Cancer branches — sick plot trunkor branches covered cracks And bares himself. Gradually this region dies off.
4. Anthracnose — on fruits figsappear spots dark colors, And They wither.
5. Souring — fruit figs change mine colorfrom pink before brown.
6. Mosaic -on leaves And fruits are formed brown spots various size, fruit And leaves die off And fall.

Pests, striking fig tree most often:

1. Fire:appearance butterflies gray colors leads To rotting fruits And leaves.
2. Mole—leaf roller: yellowcaterpillars, A V further — butterfly brown colors, traumatizes All tree (leaves turn yellow And fall, fruit are rotting).
3. psyllid: small insect With white body And transparent wings sucks All juices from fruits And kidney, depriving plant life strength And prevents his growth.
4. pine beetle: bug oval odds brown colors traumatizes bark tree, And she gradually dies off.

Reproduction

Home figs Can successfully multiply two ways

Cuttings

Cutting For rooting is selected like this way, to on him was near 3 —4 kidney. Lower half cuttings wetted stimulant root formation And fits V in advance prepared pot With sand or water. If For rooting selected sand, That his necessary previously steam V microwave ovens.

On first time, Bye stalk Not will take root, Can do For him greenhouse from glass banks or cutting plastic bottles. IN room must be enough warm And light. Periodically recommended take away greenhouse And ventilate room, to plant « breathed» fresh air.

At successful rooting And subsequent landings plants V constant soil figs will start fruit already V flow 6 months.

The most popular method of propagating a fig tree among gardeners is cuttings.

Seminal way

Seeds need to choose from the most large And beautiful fruits tree. After collection seeds necessary Rinse water And dry V flow 24 hours.

They're imprisoning seeds V beginning spring. Posted seeds V capacity With soil on depth near 2 —3 cm And slightly moisten upper layer soil. Further do greenhouse from glass banks or plastic cup. After appearance first sprouts necessary ventilate plant, cleaning up greenhouse on some time.

When sprouts enough grew up And got stronger, their Can transplant V more suitable pot With soil.
Seminal way Not especially popular among gardeners And lovers, So How desired result have to wait for a long time. Fruit tree, multiplied seed way, will start Not earlier, how through 4 —5 years.

Seeds should be collected from the largest and most appetizing fruits.

Where buy

Buy ready seedlings For growing fig tree V garden or Houses Can V gardening stores or nurseries, A Also through Internet—the shops. Price seedling will strongly vary V dependencies from varieties figs. Scatter prices behind 1 seedling will approximately such:

• Crimean black, Dalmatian (Russia) from 220 rub.;
• Brunswick (Russia) from 600 rub.;
• Brown (Türkiye) from 790 rub.;
• White Adriatic, Kadata from 375 rub.

Seeds Also available V wide access. Approximate price behind packaging seeds (5 pieces.) amounts to 60 rub.

Fig fruits will become a decoration for the garden and a favorite delicacy on the table.

Large green leaves And Right formed crown will become spectacular addition interior spacious living room or office. Delicious And useful fruit fig tree will be permanent source joy And subject pride For home.

One of the most interesting plants in the world, perhaps, the fig tree. It is unusually ancient. Even the biblical ancestors of mankind - Adam and Eve - covered their private parts with fig leaves. In Greece they say that if a fig tree grows in the yard, the family will not starve, its fruits are so nutritious. That is why travelers always took dried figs with them on the road. What kind of fruit is this and what are the benefits of it?

Why is the fig tree?

The plant in question has many names, each country has its own. The Russian version is a fig tree, because its fruits are figs. In another version, they are called figs, and the tree, by analogy, is called a fig tree. Its most famous and common name is fig. In the scientific world, this is Ficus carica. It is believed that the homeland of the plant is ancient Caria, which existed before the Trojan War. For a long time there have been no Carians or Caria, only the ficus that bears her name remains. Craftsmen make wine from figs (or figs). Therefore, another name for the plant is wineberry.

Where do fig trees grow?

Wherever there is no severe frost in winter. There are a lot of figs in the Balkans; they are found on the Black Sea coast (Georgia, Abkhazia, Crimea, Krasnodar), in Armenia, and Azerbaijan. Nobody takes special care of him there. The fig tree is completely unpretentious and grows on its own not only in the garden, but also along roads, near fences, in vacant lots, and on mountain slopes. Root system it is strong and powerful, capable of gaining a foothold in stones and seeping into any crevice. Since there is a lot of sun in the south, figs there have no shortage of light and therefore always bear fruit beautifully. They are not afraid of droughts, but with sufficient moisture, the yield is much higher.

Description

Some have never seen what a fig tree looks like. In nature, it reaches a height of 7-8 meters. Its branches are spreading, the crown is thick, and the bark is light brown. Sometimes figs grow lush tall bush. Its leaves are hard, quite large, vaguely reminiscent of maple. According to its biological rhythms, the fig tree is deciduous. In regions with a subtropical climate, where in winter average temperature does not fall below +5 +10, the plant may not shed leaves at all or shed them only for a couple of months. This phenomenon is also observed in other deciduous plants, for example, poplar. In Russia, it bares branches already in October, and in the south of Greece only in December, only to be covered with young foliage again in February. Fig trees live up to 100 years (according to some sources, 30-60). Some specimens live up to 200 years. In India there is one fig tree, which, according to the locals, is as much as three thousand years old.

Flowers

Figs are blooming, but few people mistake their flowers for such. Outwardly, they look like small immature fruits - round or pear-shaped, dark green, hard. The expression “get a fig,” that is, “get nothing,” according to one version, was born precisely because half of these “fruits” that abundantly strew the branches fall off. These are actually fig flowers. More precisely, the structure of the inflorescences. Real fig tree flowers can only be seen if the fruit is cut in half. Inside there will be dozens of inconspicuous small flowers, which will later turn into grains on whitish fibers, immersed in a sweet, viscous pulp. The fig, or common fig tree, has flowers of both sexes. The female ones, called figs, have five tiny petals and a pistil that looks like a snake's tongue. The male ones, called caprifigae, have three petals and three stamens.

Pollination

In the fig tree, pollination is complex and is carried out by a single species of insect - a small (up to 2 mm long) blastophagous wasp. The females of these wasps have wings and fly freely. The males are wingless and spend their entire lives in the fig flower. How is this possible? The point is that it grows fig tree three types of inflorescences, as already noted, male, female and mixed. Female figs inside have flowers with long pistils, while mixed ones have short ones. They are not used to obtain seeds, but to feed wasps. All three inflorescences appear on the tree 2-3 times a year, in autumn, spring, summer, or spring and autumn. Autumn ones do not fall off. Having laid eggs in them, the wasps die. The eggs develop into male and female larvae. Grown-up females crawl out through a small hole and fly away, while the males remain in place. Their raison d'être is to fertilize. After mating, the females leave the flower occupied by the male and look for a free one, climbing into all the fig inflorescences. At the same time, in male and mixed flowers, pollen gets onto their bodies from the stamens. They do not lay eggs in female figs because the long pistils get in the way. Of course, nature did not come up with this for us, but to prevent wasp larvae from eating ripening seeds. Once in a female flower, the wasp involuntarily pollinates it and leaves to look for a more suitable one. Clutches are obtained only in mixed and male clutches. New larvae hatch from the eggs and the cycle repeats. There are self-pollinating varieties of figs (“date”, “Magarach”) that are suitable for growing plants in apartments and in gardens in the northern regions.

Fruit

The fruit of the fig tree when ripe is soft and very sweet, but not juicy. Its pulp is densely filled with tiny seed grains, of which, according to some people, there are up to 900 pieces. The outside of the pulp is covered with a peel. They don't eat it. The fig tree has many varieties, but popularly there are only two of them - green (green-yellow) and black (dark purple). In both cases, the fruits are small and quite large. The latter are not as sweet, but have a better presentation.

What's in figs

Figs - very useful plant. The fruit of the fig tree in its ripe pulp contains:

Microelements (calcium, iron, magnesium, a lot of potassium, phosphorus, zinc and sodium);

Vitamins (A, B1,2,3,6,9, C, E, K);

Alimentary fiber;

Disaccharides, monosaccharides, oligosaccharides;

Flavonoids, glucosides;

Citric, quinic, oxalic, malonic acids;

Triterpenes;

Amino acids;

Carbohydrates;

Figs in cooking

The sweet fruits of the fig tree are eaten fresh and dried (dried) in the sun. Chilled figs are much tastier than warm ones. The fruits are used to prepare liqueurs, preserves, and jams; they are used for fillings in pies and added to meat dishes as an exotic ingredient.

Sun-dried and dried fruits until hard are ground. This makes powdered fig coffee. Unripe figs are not eaten because they contain a sticky, bitter milky juice. Some consider it poisonous, others advise baking unripe figs to obtain a particularly valuable product.

...and in medicine

The beneficial properties of figs were known to the ancients. The ripe fruits have been used for hundreds of years to treat bronchitis and liver disease, as a diaphoretic and antipyretic. Boiled in milk, they help reduce dry cough, and rinsing with figs treats sore throat and hoarseness. The high iron content in figs allows it to be used effectively for anemia, and the high potassium content for heart diseases.

The milky juice of unripe fruits also comes into play thanks to the ficin it contains. ethnoscience uses it to treat warts (they are smeared with juice). Ficin, in addition, has the ability to curdle milk, so figs were used in the production of cheese and meat dishes. This enzyme has also found itself in cosmetics. It is added to preparations after hair removal (reduces hair growth), to creams that stimulate skin cell renewal, and to products for oily skin. And another important ability of ficin is that it prevents the formation of blood clots and atherosclerotic plaques. The average fruit of a freshly picked fig contains approximately 120-150 mg of ficin.

Fig tree leaf is used to treat certain skin diseases. It is part of the Psoberan ointment. Healers use the leaves for scabies, cystitis, furunculosis, and inflammatory processes in the throat. Decoctions and tinctures are prepared from them. The leaves are collected after the berries have ripened, laid out in a thin layer and dried in the shade.

Crushed fresh leaves can be used to treat vitiligo and heal wounds. Paired with orange juice, figs are eaten to relieve fatigue and improve tone.

How to grow a fig tree in an apartment

Everyone can have figs on their windowsill or in their garden. This miracle plant is grown as follows:

1. Seeds. This is the most accessible method, since the seeds are easy to obtain from store-bought figs (even dry ones). Before sowing, they are washed, disinfected (in a weak solution of potassium permanganate) and dried. The land for sowing can be prepared by mixing leaf soil with sand in equal parts. Those who don’t want to bother can buy a ready-made soil mixture for seedlings. The seeds will sprout just as well in it. They are sown to a depth of 1.5-2.5 cm, watered and covered with film. The box with the sown seeds should be kept warm, but not in the sun. You need to wait 3 weeks for germination. Grown seedlings are transplanted into pots. Such figs will bear fruit in about 5 years.

2. Cuttings. This method is more profitable, since home-grown figs begin to bear fruit already at next year. Before planting the cutting, place its lower end in water and wait 2-4 hours until the juice stops releasing. Next, the wet end is cut in several places and planted in the ground (prepared in the same way as for seeds), watered and covered with a jar. Leaves emerging from the buds indicate rooting. Cuttings are prepared in the fall and planted in the spring. They can be kept in the refrigerator in the vegetable drawer all winter.

3. Layering. This method is practiced if the fig grows in open ground. Make a small depression (up to 25 cm) near the main plant and add good soil there. A twig from an old plant is tilted so that it is in the groove, and the top remains outside. It is secured in this position and the landing site is mulched. After about two years, a new plant will develop, which is planted in the desired location.

Growing in open ground

It’s hard to believe, but even in the gardens of the northern regions of Russia you can see figs. Growing it in these conditions is associated with certain difficulties. Figs are planted in the ground as ready-made seedlings (with roots). Cuttings are prepared at home, for which they are first placed in water with honey. It helps the formation of roots. It is most convenient to place the cuttings in plastic bottles. Cut off about half empty bottle, fill with soil and place the cutting there. The earth around it is being compacted. It should be damp all the time, but without excess water. Such improvised containers are placed on the windowsill, where there are no direct sun rays. The roots can be seen through transparent plastic bottles or guess them from the blossoming leaves. When planted in the ground, the bottle is cut, and the lump of earth is preserved.

Seedlings should be planted only in sunny, windless places in specially prepared holes or trenches. Their depth is calculated as follows: the depth of soil freezing in your area + 50 cm. Drainage must be placed at the bottom of the hole. Figs sprout branches quickly. As they grow, they need to be tilted towards the ground and secured so that our fig tree does not grow upward, but rather spreads along the ground. When the air temperature drops to -3-5 degrees, the figs are covered. There are several ways (see photo).

One of the tested ones is this: throw twigs or other mulch on the figs (some throw a blanket), cover with polyethylene, and sprinkle a layer of earth on top. In the spring, when the temperature reaches above zero, the shelter is removed. You can do this earlier, when the days become warm and there are still frosts at night, but in such cases a greenhouse is installed over the figs.

General rules for growing figs

1. A potted fig tree needs to be replanted regularly (once a year). New pot should be slightly wider and deeper than the previous one.

2. Figs produce more fruits with regular watering and living in sunny windows.

3. In the fall, you need to give the plants a rest, for which you place them in a cool place for 2-4 months and reduce watering. In such conditions, figs shed their leaves.

4. Both in the house and in the garden the plant needs to be fed. In spring these are nitrogen fertilizers, in summer - phosphates, in autumn - potassium. Regularly - microelements.

5. The fig tree needs pruning and crown shaping.

6. Pests of figs - gray rot, mosaic spotting, spider mite. The fight against them is the same as on all other plants.

It is difficult to find fruits or vegetables that a professional gardener does not have. His garden is sure to contain many exotic fruits and berries, including the well-known and lesser-known ones. And, of course, you can find a fig tree there; in our country it is better known as a fig.

As a rule, it is more difficult to find a fig tree in our country than plants such as lemon, pomegranate, and tangerine. But if the tree takes root, it bears fruit very well. There is a variety of fig tree - homemade figs, in my own way appearance it is very similar to the ficus, the same lush tree that can grow up to 2 meters. To keep the tree crown in a healthy state, it is necessary to regularly perform shaping.

How to grow figs - fig tree

Indoor varieties of fig trees also have many differences and varieties, the most famous of which are “Oglobsha”, “Kedota” and “Purple Sukhumi”. All these varieties are capable of producing wonderful large-sized fruits (slightly larger than Walnut), moderately sweet. Once you eat the fruits of this tree, it will be difficult to forget about their taste characteristics.

Growing figs at home does not require excessive effort. This plant is quite unpretentious. During its growth, figs prefer to be warm, but at the same time they can easily tolerate cool temperatures. In our apartments, where the air is usually quite dry, we get along without problems. In winter, it is best to place a pot of figs on the southern windows of the apartment, but in summer you should give preference to the eastern side.

Fruiting. On average, it takes about six months before the first fruits appear. Initially, foliage appears on the plant, then fruits set and ripen, after the fruits are removed from the tree, it sheds its foliage and a rest period begins (this period takes approximately 3 months). When providing the plant with the right lighting, it can bear fruit throughout the year, only occasionally shedding leaves and resting.

Watering. Regarding watering, the main thing here is not to overdo it: water should be in moderation; excessive watering is just as harmful to this plant as its insufficient amount. IN winter months year, watering can be done using a special tray. When active tree germination or fruit set occurs, it is worth fertilizing the soil with complex mineral fertilizers. But if it was not possible to fertilize the soil, then there is no need to worry - the fig tree can cope quite well without it.

The soil. When choosing soil for growing a fig tree, it is recommended to pay attention to something lighter and more nutritious. If you do not understand soil, then consult with sellers in flower shops, they will be happy to help you.

Reproduction. If you have a desire to propagate figs, then doing so is very simple. It is necessary to select fig tree cuttings that have 3-4 buds. Next, these cuttings need to be carefully cut and bottom side dip in a previously purchased root formation stimulator, then these cuttings are rooted in damp sand or water. There is also the option of propagating figs using seeds, but this method of propagation is not popular, since the plant begins to bear fruit only in the 4-5th year after planting. If you use cuttings, the first fruits appear within 6 months.

Molding. The plant responds remarkably well to pruning, so it can be transformed into any shape, the main thing is that there is desire and imagination.

It is worth noting that fig fruits not only have excellent taste, but are quite healthy. In addition, if the tree is grown with your own hands, then there is no doubt about the benefits of the fruit. Fig fruits contain a large amount of potassium, so if you eat several fruits of this tree during the day, you can improve the condition of blood vessels.

The plant is also capable of thinning the blood, so patients with blood clots must have this plant in their diet. Eating figs is recommended for those people who have anemia or have diseases associated with the urinary system or kidneys. Some doctors claim that fig fruits can even cure cancer (of course, if the disease is in an early stage).

This plant is also suitable for people with problems in the upper respiratory tract. You need to boil the fruits of the tree in milk and drink this drink three times a day, the drink should be hot, and the dose is 100 grams. In addition, if you have problems with digestion or metabolism, it is recommended to eat fig jam. If young children have constipation, then fig jam should be diluted with water and given to the child; it has a wonderful laxative effect.

Fig fruits are not the only thing that can help people treat diseases: the sap of this tree is also used. Fig tree juice is needed to treat acne, wounds, pustules, and even skin cancer.

Figs are a plant that is not only an excellent remedy for treating diseases, but also a wonderful creator of home comfort.

Figs, also known as figs or fig trees, are one of the most ancient cultivated plants, belongs to the ficus genus and has Latin name- ficus carica (Ficus carica). Historically, the fig is a subtropical plant, but having become widespread, the fig also grows well in the tropics, being a deciduous tree.

The fig tree grows small and when mature can be from 3 to 9 meters in height, with numerous spreading branches and a trunk up to 18 centimeters in diameter. The plant contains an abundance of milky latex liquid. The root system of the fig is quite branched and often covers a circle up to 15 meters wide; fig roots can go up to 6 meters deep.

Large fig leaves are divided into 3-7 segments with irregularly toothed edges. The leaf plane reaches a length and width of 25 centimeters. The leaf is quite thick with a rough upper surface and a soft, fleecy underside, with light veins. Fig leaves are used in India as green fodder for livestock and are collected immediately after the fruit harvest. It is known that fig leaves are used in France as a raw material for producing perfumery material with a herbaceous-woody odor, which is involved in the creation of forest aromas.

The latex found in fig trees can be very irritating to the skin if it is not removed immediately. It contains rubber, resins, albumin, sugar, malic acid, renin, proteolytic enzymes, diastase, esterases, lipases, catalase and peroxidases. Fig latex is collected in the early morning at the peak of plant activity and has many uses from medicinal and food to use in household chemicals.

The fruit of the fig tree is a fleshy, hollow vessel with a small hole at the top, partially covered with small scales. Fig fruits grow obovate or pear-shaped from 2.5-10 centimeters in length, and their color varies from yellowish-green to dark purple.

Tiny fig flowers in large quantities located on the inside of the unborn fetus. In most varieties of figs, the flowers are female and do not require pollinators. However, some species have flowers of both sexes and require visits from tiny insects to produce seeds.

The skin of fig fruits is thin and tender, the fleshy walls are whitish, pale yellow or with a purple tint. When ripe, the fruits are juicy and sweet; unripe fruits contain sticky, inedible latex. Depending on the variety, fig seeds can be large, up to 30 pieces per fruit, and vary to very small - up to 1600 pieces per fig.

Figs grow and thrive in tropical areas with hilly terrain at 800-1800 meters above sea level. In winter, the tree can withstand up to 20 degrees of frost in places that are favorable according to other natural indicators. When growing figs for the production of fresh fruit, the area should have a dry climate with light spring rains, since the abundance of moisture during fruit ripening contributes to their cracking and rapid spoilage. Semi-arid tropical and subtropical regions of the world are ideal for growing figs if water sources are available. However, very hot dry periods cause fruit to drop even when irrigated.

Figs grow in a wide range of soils. Even light sand, rich loam, heavy clay or limestone are suitable, as long as sufficient depth and drainage are provided. Sandy soil containing lime is preferable when the crop is to be dried. Very acidic soils unsuitable for growing figs, the pH value should be between 6.0 and 6.5 units. The trees are fairly tolerant of moderate salinity.

Figs typically bear fruit twice a year. At the beginning of the season, the fruits are inferior in quality and are often too sour. The main one is the second harvest, which is of decisive importance. Fig trees bear fruit abundantly for the first 12-15 years, and then the gardens require renewal due to reduced yields and the development of diseases, although figs can grow to a very old age.

Tell your friends about it.

Botanical name: Fig or Fig, or Fig tree, or Fig tree (Ficus carica) - genus Ficus, mulberry family.

Homeland of figs: Mediterranean, India.

Lighting: photophilous.

The soil: light, nutritious.

Watering: abundant.

Max Height: 10 m.

Average lifespan of a tree: 200 years.

Landing: seeds, cuttings, layering.

Description of the fig plant: fruits, leaves and seeds

Fig is a subtropical or large shrub 8-10 m high with a low, wide crown and thick branches. The bark of the trunk and branches is light gray and smooth.

The leaves are large, alternately arranged, 3-7 lobed, almost entire, hard, dark green above, grayish-green below, pubescent, up to 15 cm long, up to 12 cm wide. Attached to a thick, long petiole. In the axils of the leaves there are inflorescences - syconia, shaped, hollow, with a small hole at the top. This hole is intended for blastophagous wasps, which pollinate the tree. Male inflorescences are called caprifigs, female inflorescences are called figs.

The fruits are sweet, juicy, pear-shaped, up to 8 cm long, up to 5 cm in radius, weighing 30-70 g. They contain small nut seeds inside. Fruit color, color and size depend on the variety. The most common are yellow, yellow-green, and dark blue figs.

During the growth period, the fig tree often blooms. However, male inflorescences are formed only from the beginning of spring to the end of autumn, and figs - only in summer and autumn.

You can see what figs look like in the photo in the gallery below, after this article.

How and where figs grow: what they look like in photos and videos

The fig tree grows wild in Mediterranean countries, India, Georgia, Armenia, Iran, Asia Minor, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Abkhazia, and on the Black Sea coast of the Krasnodar Territory. In the mountains it grows at an altitude of 500 - 2000 m above sea level, often on the southern slopes, as well as along river banks, forming thickets. Cultivated in many countries with subtropical climates. Large areas of fig plantations in Turkey, Tunisia, Greece, Italy, Portugal, and America. In Russia it is grown in the southern regions of the European part. The countries where figs grow have a warm, humid climate. The plant does not tolerate severe frosts, below - 12°C.

The culture is also grown indoors as decorative tree. In this case, its height reaches no more than 3-4 m.

Figs bloom 2-3 years after planting. It produces high yields from 7-9 years of age.

The culture is propagated by seeds, cuttings and layering. In nature, the fig tree reproduces with the help of blastophagous wasps, which penetrate through the opening of the infructescence. The females of these insects lay eggs in underdeveloped female inflorescences. Wasps hatch in male inflorescences. Leaving the inflorescence, the wasps become dirty with pollen. In the wild, they are attracted by the aroma of female inflorescences. Once in the female inflorescences, the wasps leave pollen carried on the body. Flowers with pollen on their stigmas bear fruit.

You can find out more information about figs by watching the video:

Fans of this culture will be interested in the answer to the question “how do figs grow?” Fig trees are unpretentious, grow and bear fruit successfully on any soil, including poor and depleted soils. They often bloom throughout the year. The fruits are set 2 times a year - in summer and autumn. The fig plant is drought-resistant, and some varieties can withstand low temperatures down to -17-20°C. and is not affected.

One tree bears about 70-90 fruits per year. The lifespan of wild individuals is 150-200 years, while trees grown at home are 30-60 years.

Below you can see a photo of how figs grow:

What are figs

The fig fruit has yellow, black-blue, purple and black colors, depending on the variety. It has high taste qualities and contains a lot of valuable substances. Despite sweet taste This fruit has low calorie content. 100 g of fresh berries contains 49 kcal. Dried figs decrease in weight and volume, but at the same time sugars accumulate in them. 100 g of dried fruit contains about 95 kcal. Dried figs are highly nutritious. They contain 4.5 g of protein, 1.4 g of fat and 64 g of carbohydrates. In addition, figs are a source of vitamins, minerals, microelements, dietary fiber. The main vitamins included in its composition are vitamins A, B, B1, C, E, PP, beta-carotenes, fiber, pectins. Among the minerals, the pulp of the fruit contains iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and sodium.

The fruit of the fig tree is eaten fresh, canned, or dried. Jams, jams, pastilles, compotes and wines are made from it, for which the fruits of this plant are called “wine berries”. However, fresh figs are not transportable, so they are transported only unripe or dried.

ABOUT beneficial properties Fig trees were known in ancient times. Today, wine berries are used not only for preparing various dishes, but also to replenish vitamin deficiencies, strengthen bones, and restore vitality, removing toxins from the body. Fig fruits are used to treat coughs, colds, liver and kidney diseases, and the cardiovascular system. In addition, this fruit increases male potency, struggles with sexual impotence. Fresh fruits are low in calories, which helps in the fight against excess weight. There are “fig” fasting days, when they eat 100 g of dried fig fruits, 1 kg of any other fruit and 500 g per day.

Wine berry is recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Figs help prevent iron deficiency in the body of a pregnant woman and prevent fetal anemia. At breastfeeding enhances lactation, serves as a prevention of mastopathy, saturates breast milk vitamins and microelements beneficial for the child.

It has been proven that figs improve brain function, improve immunity, and prevent many diseases.

Unripe fruits are inedible, as they contain caustic milky juice.

Figs are a healthy fruit

Fresh figs do not harm a healthy body. However, this fruit is contraindicated for gout and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Due to their high sugar content, dried fruits are not recommended for overweight and diabetic patients.

Wine berries should be excluded from the diet during pregnancy if a woman is gaining weight quickly or suffers from diabetes.

Despite minimal harm figs, should not be consumed in large quantities. A healthy person is recommended to consume 3-4 berries per day.

How to eat figs correctly

Everyone knows what figs are. However, not everyone knows how to properly consume this tasty and healthy berry.

In the absence of any diseases, the fruit of the fig tree can be eaten in any form. This fruit perfectly satisfies hunger and replaces chocolate and other sweets. Dried fruits are used as dried fruits. Before use, they are doused with boiling water and allowed to swell. You can soften the figs by steaming them, so they will retain their shape and taste. Dried fig trees are added to compotes and used for filling cakes, pies and other confectionery products.

Fresh figs are used as desserts and as an additional ingredient in meats, salads and snacks. Figs add an exotic taste and delicate aroma to any dish.

Unripe fruits are inedible, but they can be baked by first cutting them, putting nuts in the cut and filling them with honey. This dessert is not only tasty and nutritious, but also very healthy.

When choosing figs, you should pay attention to their color, size and softness. It is better to give preference to fruits that are equal in size, soft, light yellow. Hard flesh and a sour taste indicate that the fruit is unripe or past its expiration date.

Fig leaves

The leaves of this plant are used in medicinal purposes. They contain organic acids, furocoumarins, essential oil, steroids, flavonoids, tannins.

Raw materials are harvested from June to October. The leaves are not plucked, but cut with a knife. The cut leaves are laid out on a flat surface in a thin layer. Drying is carried out on outdoors. To dry quickly, they are turned over 2-4 times a day. During collection and drying, the leaves should be protected from getting wet. To prevent raw materials from getting wet from rain, they are covered with a tarpaulin and placed under a canopy or in a ventilated room. In clear, sunny weather, drying lasts 5-6 days. Overdried leaves turn brown and lose their quality.

Store raw materials in a dry, ventilated area. Shelf life 2 years.

Infusions and decoctions of the leaves are used to gargle for colds, rub the eyelids for trachoma, and treat scabies, cystitis, kidney stones, and furunculosis. In scientific medicine, the drug “Psoberan” is obtained from raw materials, prescribed for localized baldness, as well as for restoring skin pigmentation in cases of vintiligo.

Fresh fig leaves are applied to wounds. They draw out pus and promote rapid healing of the wound.

Leaf extract is included in cosmetic products for skin and hair care.

In addition to the leaves, fig seeds are used for medicinal purposes. They are used for constipation, 10-12 pieces at a time. Seed oil is valued for its moisturizing properties, so it is used to prepare creams, lotions, soaps, and shampoos.

Economic importance

Fig tree fruits are used as a coffee substitute. The wood is used to make crafts and also as fuel.

Attractive and unusual in appearance trees serve as decoration garden plot. A plant grown in a pot makes the interior of the room unusual and pleasant.

Photos of figs are presented on this page, after this article.

History of figs

History tells that humanity has long appreciated the benefits and taste of the fig tree. Archaeologists claim that this plant is more than 5,000 years old. The first description of figs was compiled in the Bible, the Koran and ancient Egyptian writings.

As the ancient legend says, its leaves were the first clothes of Adam and Eve. IN Ancient Greece slaves wiped their masters' mouths with them after meals. Participants in the Olympic Games consumed large quantities of figs before their performances. There was a belief that this fruit gives strength and courage. That is why soldiers always took this delicacy with them on military campaigns.

In Buddhism, the fig is considered a symbol of insight, because it was under this tree that the great Buddha realized the meaning of existence. IN Ancient Rome the plant was sacred, as it saved Romulus and Remus (the founders of the Roman Empire) from death. The Egyptian queen Cleopatra had wineberries as her favorite delicacy.

The ancient Greeks revered figs as a symbol of fertility, and on holidays dedicated to the god of fertility, Dionysus, they supplemented the basket with food and wine drinks with the fruits of this plant.

Interestingly, at the Olympic Games in Ancient Greece, instead of medals, winners were given fig tree fruits.

The great writers and poets Leopardi, Dante, Pascoli praised figs in their works. The plant was credited with miraculous properties. Thus, the famous Roman doctor Dorante believed that almost all diseases could be treated with a decoction of figs. However, over the years, this statement was not confirmed in practice, so the fig began to lose its popularity, turning over the years into an ordinary tree.

The fig tree is a close relative of the indoor ficus and distant relatives of the mulberry. Knowing their relationship, scientists spent many years crossing figs with frost-resistant mulberries. In America, the then famous scientist Luther Burbank tried to implement this idea. However, the Crimean naturalist Ya.I. was able to turn the idea into reality. Bomyk. In the harsh winter of 1950, when frosts reached -20°C, ordinary figs died out, only the fig-mulberry hybrid Bomyka survived.

The gallery below shows photos of a fig tree, which clearly shows all characteristics this amazing and unexplored plant.

Return