Ficus carica ‘Brown Turkey’ (Fig)
Fig 'Brown Turkey', Brown Turkey Fig, Ficus carica 'Negro Largo', Ficus 'Italian Brown', Ficus carica 'Texas Everbearing' Ficus 'Italian Brown'Fig ‘Brown Turkey’ is a versatile and productive deciduous tree known for its delicious fruit and attractive appearance. A favorite among gardeners, this cultivar combines ease of care with high yield, making it an excellent addition to home orchards or ornamental landscapes. Its fruit is prized for its sweet flavor, soft texture, and versatility in culinary applications, including fresh eating, preserves, and baking.
This plant grows to a manageable height of 10–15 feet, making it suitable for small gardens and container planting. Its broad, lobed leaves provide lush foliage, creating visual interest even when fruit is not present. The tree produces medium-sized, pear-shaped figs with a brownish-purple skin and amber flesh. These fruits ripen in midsummer, with a second harvest possible in warmer climates during early autumn.
As a self-pollinating variety, this plant does not require additional fig trees for fruit production, simplifying cultivation for home gardeners. It thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 7–9 and demonstrates excellent adaptability to varying soil conditions, provided they are well-drained. Additionally, it tolerates mild frost and is heat-resistant, making it suitable for diverse climates.
Care Instructions
- Light: Requires full sun for optimal growth and fruit production.
- Soil: Prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter but adapts to sandy or rocky soils.
- Watering: Water regularly during the growing season. Once established, reduce watering, as figs prefer drier conditions.
- Pruning: Prune annually during dormancy to remove dead wood and shape the tree for improved airflow and sunlight penetration.
- Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruiting.
- Spacing: Plant trees at least 15 feet apart to ensure healthy development and reduce competition for resources.
Fig ‘Brown Turkey’ offers beauty and functionality to gardens, providing shade, ornamental appeal, and an abundance of sweet fruit. Its hardy nature and adaptability make it an ideal choice for beginner and experienced gardeners alike, promising years of satisfaction and enjoyment.
