KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Learn what fig is and how many fig varieties there are
- Discover the 3 best fig varieties
- Understand fig varieties
Did you know figs have more fiber than prunes and more potassium than bananas? Shocking right? Maybe that’s why it’s called nature’s hidden gem. Well, it is actually a gem that is an all-rounder, that tastes good, and is great for your health too.
Now, I know figs are not so common, but it has a unique flavor that many people enjoy. Figs come in different shapes and colors because there are over 700 types of them.
There is no limit to figs; you can eat them dry and fresh, in salads, and in desserts. They can level up any meal. If you are planning to use the best variety of figs in your next dish, read this article because it has everything you need to know about figs.
What Is a Fig?
Figs are one of the most unique fruits around – if you can even call them that. They come from fig trees, and a fun fact they are a part of the mulberry family. You know, what makes figs unique is that they’re inverted flowers that are encased in a pear-like casing. When you crack that casing open, you’ll find the jam-like thing and small fig seeds inside, which are what’s commonly eaten around the world.
Figs are popular in a wide variety of desserts. What’s more, you can eat dried figs themselves if you just want to experience that fig flavor. Figs are high in a lot of nutrients as well; they’re a good source of iron, potassium, fiber, and much more.
How Many Fig Varieties Are There?
There are hundreds of fig varieties to choose from. In fact, there are over 700 varieties of figs! According to some sources, the number of fig options can be closer to 800 or more.
Overall, for you, there are a lot of options to pick from, whether you want to use them in a sweet dish or a savory one.
The 3 Best Fig Varieties
There are so many fig varieties available. Some options are better than others, especially if you’re living in a specific climate that may not be able to handle all types of figs. For example, the Chicago hardly fig tree can grow well in almost any climate in the US.
We cover some of the best fig varieties below based on flavor, hardiness, and several other factors.
1. The Best Overall Fig Variety: Black Mission Figs
If you live in the United States and love figs, there’s a good chance you’ve come across black mission figs. These figs were brought to the United States back in 1768 and continue to be one of the most popular options due to their honey flavor notes.
You’ll know you’re looking at black mission figs based on the color of the fig; they have an almost midnight black color to them. You can find these figs from early summer to about the end of October, and they are commonly grown in San Diego.
2. The Best Outdoor Fig Variety: Chicago Hardy Figs
Are you looking for a fig tree that can handle all four seasons? If so, Chicago hardy figs are the right choice. They have a deep purple outer cover that looks great alongside the tree’s deep green leaves. This makes it one of the prettiest fig trees to plant if the aesthetic is important to you.
Still, what makes these figs special is their hardiness. These fig trees can handle winter temperatures and can grow with ease in most regions of the United States. While these figs are a little smaller, they make up for it with a bold flavor, and they are easy to grow, as well.
3. The Best Indoor Fig Variety: Little Miss Figgy
If you’re planning on growing figs indoors, you should try the Little Miss Figgy tree. These fig trees are small and compact enough to grow in your home. Plus, you will get delicious fruits, because you can still harvest figs from them!
That said, the figs from these trees are smaller than your average figs. Thankfully, they make up for this with the amount of figs they produce because they’re known as heavy producers.
Understanding Fig Varieties
There are almost 700 varieties of figs, which is a lot, right? Although it’s great to have so many options, it’s important to start with the best fig varieties. Otherwise, you may end up ruining your experience before you even give figs a chance.
The good news is that suppliers like Online Fig Trees offer a wide variety of fig trees for you to choose from. Whether you need figs that can survive in harsh cold temperatures or figs that thrive in a temperate climate, plenty of options are available.
Why is fig not vegan?
It’s because the pollination process involves the use of fig wasps, which enter the fig to lay eggs and often die inside.
What is the most productive fig variety?
The black mission fig is known as one of the most common varieties grown in the world.
Which country has the best figs in the world?
Turkey is very famous for high-quality fresh and dried figs.
What is the healthiest way to eat figs, dry or fresh?
It depends on your requirement; if you want fiber and minerals, go for dried figs, but if you want vitamin C and beta-carotene, have fresh figs.
