Celeste Fig

Ficus carica (FY-kus KAIR-ih-kuh)

Family: Moraceae Unknown Shrub (3-15 ft)

Ficus carica 'Celeste' is a cold-tolerant, multi-branched deciduous shrub and cultivar. It grows 6 to 10 feet tall and equally as wide, and produces abundant, edible, small to medium-sized figs that are both sweet and flavorful. It is sometimes called the sugar fig because of the fig's intensely sweet taste. The fruits are initially green and then ripen to a purplish-bronze with a pink flesh in late summer to early fall. These figs have a "closed eye" that helps resist the insects from entering the fruit and causing it to spoil. The leaves are green, leathery, lobed, and up to 12 inches long. 'Celeste' is one of the most frequently grown figs. Prefers full sun to partial shade and rich organic, moist, well-drained soils with an acidic or neutral pH. It is winter-hardy in zones 6b to 10; however, it requires winter protection, as it often sustains cold injury in the southeastern United States. Best planted in a sheltered location, and recommend adding mulch at the roots for added cold-weather protection. It is heat-tolerant and self-pollinating. These plants are easy to grow and fast-growing. To maintain, prune dead, dying, or crowded branches in late winter. Propagated by hardwood cuttings. Wear protective clothing and gloves when handling this shrub. A sunburn-like reaction can occur when the skin is exposed to the sap of Ficus carica and then exposed to sunlight, a condition known as phytophotodermatitis. Ficus carica 'Celeste' may be used as a fruit or as an ornamental shrub in the landscape. The limbs are flexible and may be espaliered on a brick wall or fence. It may also be grown in a container and brought indoors during the winter months. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: This cultivar is an insect pest and disease-resistant variety. Monitor for scale, aphids, mealybugs, root knot nematodes, and spider mites. May be susceptible to leaf spot, rust, and blight. Fruit litter can be messy. Toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Wear protective clothing and gloves when handling this shrub. VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Edibles, Bulbs, and Houseplants", a plant identification course developed in partnership with Longwood Gardens. More information on Ficus carica .

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 68 attributes.