Ficus carica, commonly known as the Edible Fig Tree, is one of the easiest and most rewarding fruit trees to grow in Australia. Loved for its delicious sweet fruit and attractive, bold foliage, this Mediterranean classic thrives in warm, sunny conditions and suits everything from suburban backyards to courtyards, pots and edible gardens.

Whether you’re growing figs for fresh eating, desserts, preserves or summer snacking straight from the tree, Ficus carica is a must-have for any productive garden.

Why Ficus carica Is So Popular

• Delicious home-grown figs – soft, sweet and aromatic fruit.
• Extremely hardy – thrives in heat, drought and tough Australian conditions.
• Perfect for pots or in-ground planting.
• Fast growing with a beautiful spreading habit.
• Low maintenance and long-lived.

Best Uses in the Garden

• Feature fruit tree in the backyard.
• Large pots for patios, courtyards and balconies.
• Edible gardens alongside citrus, berries and herbs.
• Shade tree with broad, decorative leaves.
• Fruit production for fresh eating or preserving.

Growth & Size

Ficus carica can be managed to suit almost any garden size:

• Height: typically 3–5 m in-ground
• Width: 3–5 m with a naturally spreading canopy

In pots or with regular pruning, trees can be kept compact and productive at around 1.5–2.5 m.

Sun & Position

• Full sun is essential for strong growth and maximum fruiting.
• Prefers a warm, protected position.
• Excellent near north-facing walls for extra heat.
• Suits both coastal and inland regions.

Soil & Watering

• Grows best in well-draining soil.
• Tolerant of poor, dry or rocky soils once established.
• Water deeply while establishing; reduce as tree matures.
• Thrives in large pots with a premium potting mix.

Feeding & Pruning

• Feed with an organic or fruit tree fertiliser in spring and summer.
• Prune lightly in winter to shape and encourage bigger crops.
• Remove any weak or crossing branches.
• Responds well to hard pruning if needed.

Fruit Details

Figs can produce one to two crops per year depending on the climate. Fruit is typically:

• Soft, sweet and aromatic
• Ripening in late summer to early autumn
• Ready when skin softens and droops on the stem

Perfect for eating fresh, roasting, drying, baking or making fig jam.

How Many Do I Need?

• One tree is enough for a household’s supply.
• 1–3 m spacing if planting multiple for a mini orchard.
• Potted figs are ideal for small spaces.

Important Notes

Like all living plants, size and appearance may vary slightly depending on season. We hand-select the healthiest stock available at the time of your order.