Ficus carica Rouge de juillet

Ficus carica Rouge de juillet is known for its very large fruits weighing 100 to 150 g over two harvests: first in summer, around mid-July, and then again in early autumn. Its moderate growth makes it the ideal choice for enhancing small gardens or limited spaces, whether grown in the ground or in a pot, provided that it is large enough. When fully ripe, the elongated figs develop distinct reddish hues under the sun. Their pink flesh is juicy, deliciously sweet, creamy, and subtly fragrant. It is rich in flavour and contains numerous small seeds (achenes). They can be enjoyed fresh or prepared in various ways, such as in compotes, jams, or incorporated into pastries and savoury dishes. This robust, productive, cold-resistant variety is not very susceptible to diseases.

Fig trees should be planted in autumn-winter, avoiding periods of frost, but can also be done in spring in colder regions.

The Fig tree, Ficus carica in Latin, belongs to the Moraceae family and originates from warm regions ranging from the Mediterranean to Central Asia. Generally, it does not exceed three to four metres high with a fairly twisted trunk and a bushy habit. The deciduous leaves are rough and hairy, reaching up to 25 cm long and divided into three to seven lobes with variable shapes. The underside of the leaf is velvety with prominent veins. The stems, leaves, and fruits contain a fairly irritating white latex. The wood, with its grey and smooth bark, is soft, spongy, and hollow. The fig tree's spreading roots are powerful. Fig trees are classified in two varieties:

— Unifere varieties, producing a single, abundant harvest each year in late summer, between mid-August and late September.

— Biferous varieties, fruiting twice a year. They first produce figs, called "flower figs," in early summer, around June-July, appearing on the previous year's wood, and then "autumn figs," which form on the new shoots of the year and ripen around September.

The 'Minfigfor' variety is marketed under the trade names ROUGE DE JUILLET® or RED JULY. This recent creation is the result of the research of Isabelle and Jean-Yves Forest, the managers of Pépinières Forest, located in Anjou in Louresse Rochemenier, the breeder of the Gerard Depardieu rose. This biferous variety abundantly produces large "flower figs" weighing approximately 100 to 150 g in July, and then smaller "autumn figs" weighing 80 to 100 g in September. The ripening periods vary depending on the climate and sunlight. The elongated figs take on reddish-purple hues when fully ripe. Under a thin skin, there is tender, juicy, sweet, and fragrant pink flesh, with few seeds. Harvesting over several days to ensure that the figs are picked at their peak ripeness and consumed with maximum flavour. Ficus carica 'Minfigfor' is a self-fertile and parthenocarpic variety, fruiting without fertilisation. It does not need other Fig tree plants or the intervention of the fig wasp, the fig tree's pollinating insect, which is too sensitive to survive in cold climates.

The fig reveals all its delicacy and creaminess when bathed in the sun. It also makes a change in desserts such as tarts, clafoutis, and compotes or savoury dishes accompanied by goat cheese, cured ham, foie gras, or served with poultry and white meats. Its delicate and pronounced flavour can be enhanced with honey. It also pairs well with sweet fruits such as cherries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, currants, blueberries, and grapes. Figs are one of the best fruits for making jams due to their delicate taste, richness, and remarkable sweetness.

Figs are rich in fibre, have laxative properties, and the seeds aid digestion. They are rich in minerals, trace elements, and vitamin B. After harvesting, it is not a good idea to store them in the refrigerator, as the skin can suffer from moisture and condensation and the flavour will not be as good.

The Fig tree is often praised as one of the most attractive fruit trees, with its distinctive foliage giving it an ornamental character and providing pleasant shade during hot summer days. For the best results, choose a location sheltered by a wall to protect it from harsh winters, with a south or southwest exposure. In the southern regions, it pairs well with Pomegranate trees, White Mulberry trees, and Japanese Medlar trees. In the north, companions such as Quince trees, Akebia quinata, and Feijoa, which are robust and exotic, are ideal associations. It is important to consider its mature size to determine the appropriate spacing when planting. Although the roots generally do not damage modern constructions, they can affect dry stone walls or those built with lean mortars in an old style.

Among all the varieties of Fig trees, it is important to choose the right variety based on the climate, garden size and planned use of the fruits.