Fig Tree Gentil Bianco - Ficus carica

Ficus carica 'Gentil Bianco' is a very hardy, vigorous, and self-fertile variety of fig tree. It produces a plentiful crop twice a year, once in July and again in September-October. The medium-sized fruits have green skin, revealing white-pink flesh with a sweet and fragrant flavour. They are highly appreciated when eaten fresh, cooked, or dried. The fig is a delightful fruit of summer, with many nutritional benefits. Its average development and distinctive foliage make it a decorative and charming bush.

Ficus carica belongs to the Moraceae family, and originates from Turkey and Asia Minor. It does not usually exceed 3 to 4m (10 to 13ft) in height, and has a fairly twisted trunk with a bushy habit. The deciduous leaves are rough and velvety. They can reach up to 25cm (10in) in length and are divided into three to seven variable lobes with toothed edges. The underside of the leaf is velvety and displays prominent veins. The stems, leaves, and fruits contain a white latex that can be irritating. The wood has smooth grey bark and is soft, spongy, and hollow. The fig tree has powerful spreading roots.

Fig trees are divided into:

- uniferous varieties, which produce an abundant single harvest each year, at the beginning of autumn

- biferous varieties, which bear fruit twice a year. In early summer, they produce figs called 'flower figs' on the previous year's wood. In autumn, they bear figs on the current year's branches.

Ficus carica 'Gentil Bianco' is a biferous variety. It produces fig-flowers weighing approximately 80 to 100g in July, and figs weighing 40 to 60g in October-November. This staggered fruiting ensures a harvest of delicious figs throughout the season. Multiple harvests are required to pick the figs when ripe and enjoy them with maximum flavour. 'Gentil Bianco' is a self-fertile and parthenocarpic variety, bearing fruit without pollination. It does not require other fig trees and does not rely on the blastophagus, the only fig-pollinating insect, which is too sensitive to survive in cold climates.

Figs can be eaten fresh, revealing their full flavour and creaminess. They can also enhance sweet dishes such as pies, clafoutis, and compotes, as well as savoury dishes when paired with goat's cheese and cured ham. They beautifully accompany poultry or white meats. The delicate and pronounced flavour of figs can be enhanced with honey. Figs also pair well with red fruits (cherry, strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, currant, blueberry, etc.) and grapes. Among the fruits for jam, figs have a prominent place with their delicate and rich taste. They are very mild and rich in fibre, making them beneficial for digestion. They are also rich in minerals, trace elements, and vitamin B. Refrigeration is not recommended as it alters the fig's aroma and the skin may suffer from humidity and condensation.

It is often considered one of the most beautiful fruit trees. Its unique foliage gives it an ornamental aspect and offers pleasant shade during the summer heat. Plant it by a wall with a south or southwest exposure that will protect it from the cold during harsh winters. In warmer regions, it can be planted alongside pomegranate, white mulberry, and Japanese medlar. In cooler regions, it can be planted with quince trees, Akebia quinata, and feijoa, which are also hardy and exotic. You should consider its adult size to determine the distance at which you will plant it. Although the roots do not cause damage to modern constructions, they can damage dry-stone walls or walls made with weak mortars.