Fig Tree Jannot - Ficus carica

Ficus carica Jannot is a hardy, vigorous, self-fertile and highly productive variety. This Fig tree bears fruit twice a year, once in July and again in September-October. The fruits have a yellowish-green skin, large in size, with juicy red flesh and a sweet and fragrant flavour. They are highly appreciated when eaten fresh, cooked in dishes, or dried. The Fig is a delightful summer fruit with numerous nutritional benefits. Its average growth and distinctive foliage make the Jannot Fig tree a highly decorative and charming shrub. Plant it in autumn-winter, frost-free conditions (or in spring for colder regions).

The Ficus carica Jannot is a recent variety, originating from Maine-et-Loire. It is named after the gardener who cultivated it.

Originally from regions with a warm temperate climate, ranging from the Mediterranean to Central Asia, the Fig tree belongs to the Moraceae family. Generally, it grows up to three to four metres in height and has a twisted trunk and a bushy habit. The deciduous leaves are rough and hairy, reaching up to 25 cm (10in) in length, with three to seven lobes that are serrated and vary in shape. The undersides of the leaves are velvety and show prominent veins. The stems, leaves, and fruits contain a white latex that can cause irritation. The wood, with its smooth gray bark, is soft, spongy, and hollow. The Fig tree has strong, trailing roots.

There are two types of Fig tree: unifere varieties that produce one abundant harvest per year, usually in early autumn, and biferous varieties that bear fruit twice a year. The first harvest consists of 'fig-flowers' in the summer on the previous year's branches, and the second harvest is the normal figs that develop in autumn on the current year's growth.

Among all the varieties of Fig tree, the Jannot Fig tree is a biferous variety. It produces an abundant first harvest in July with figs weighing around 80 to 100g, and a second harvest in October-November with figs weighing 40 to 70g. This staggered fruiting ensures a continuous supply of delicious figs throughout the season. Multiple pickings are required for the figs to ripen fully and be consumed at their maximum flavour. Ficus carica Jannot is a self-fertile and parthenocarpic variety, meaning it can produce fruit without pollination. It does not require other Fig trees for pollination and does not rely on the blastophagus wasp, the Fig tree's sole pollinator, which is too sensitive to survive in cold climates.

Sun-drenched, figs can be enjoyed fresh, revealing their full flavour and succulence. They can also add a surprising touch to sweet dishes such as tarts, clafoutis, and compotes, as well as savoury dishes when paired with goat cheese, cured ham, or foie gras. They can also be served alongside poultry or white meats. The delicate and pronounced flavor of figs pairs well with honey. They also complement sweet fruits like cherries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, currants, blueberries, and grapes. Among fruits used for making jams, figs have a prominent place due to their delicate and rich flavor. They are very mild and rich in fibre, with laxative properties, and the seeds aid digestion. They are also rich in minerals, trace elements, and vitamin B. After harvesting, it is not recommended to refrigerate figs to avoid compromising their flavour and texture due to humidity and condensation.

The Fig tree is often considered one of the most beautiful fruit trees. Its distinctive foliage adds an ornamental touch and provides pleasant shade during hot summer days. Plant the Fig tree against a wall to protect it from the cold during harsh winters, with a south or southwest exposure. In southern regions, it can be planted alongside Pomegranate, White Mulberry, and Japanese Medlar. In colder regions, it can be associated with Quince, Feijoa, and Akebia quinata, which are also hardy and exotic. Take into account its adult size when determining the planting distance. Although the roots do not cause damage to modern constructions, they can damage dry stone walls or walls made with weak mortar in traditional construction methods.