Fig Tree Terza - Ficus carica

The Terza Fig Tree, also known as Quinta, is a very productive, vigorous and self-fertile variety. Discovered in Switzerland, it is resistant to cold weather. This Fig Tree is unifera, producing abundantly in a single harvest in August-September depending on the amount of sunlight. The fruits have a yellowish-green skin, small size and round shape, containing a juicy red pulp with a sweet flavor and a slight strawberry fragrance. They are highly appreciated when eaten fresh, cooked or dried. The Fig is a summer fruit with numerous virtues and nutritional benefits. Its average size, remarkable architecture and unique foliage make the fig tree a decorative and charming bush. Plant in autumn-winter, frost-free (or in spring for colder regions).

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 does not exceed three to four meters in height, with a fairly twisted trunk and a bushy habit. The deciduous leaves are rough and hairy. They can reach 25 cm (10in) in length and are more or less divided into three to seven lobes with variable shapes. The underside of the leaf is velvety and shows prominent veins. The stems, leaves and fruits contain a somewhat irritating white latex. The wood, with its smooth gray bark, is soft, spongy and hollow. The spreading roots of the fig tree are powerful. Unifera varieties produce a single abundant harvest per year, usually in early autumn, while bifera varieties bear fruit twice a year, with figs called "fig-flowers" in summer on the previous year's branches and normal figs developing in autumn on the current year's branches.

The Terza Fig Tree is a unifera variety that produces round fruits weighing 40 to 50 g in August-September. Several harvests are required to pick the figs when fully ripe and enjoy them at their maximum flavor. It is a self-fertile and parthenocarpic variety, allowing fruits to be obtained without pollination. It does not require other fig tree plants and does not depend on the intervention of the fig wasp, the only pollinating insect of the fig tree, which is too sensitive to survive in cold climates.

Full of sunshine, figs can be enjoyed fresh, revealing their full flavor and creaminess. They can also surprise and enhance sweet dishes such as tarts, clafoutis and other compotes, as well as savory dishes in combination with goat cheese, cured ham or foie gras, and as an accompaniment to poultry or white meats. The delicate and pronounced flavor of figs can be enhanced with honey. They also pair well with sweet fruits like cherries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, currants, blueberries, and grapes. Among fruits for jams, figs have a prominent place with their delicate and rich taste. Rich in fiber, figs have laxative properties and the seeds aid digestion. They are also rich in minerals, trace elements, and vitamin B. After harvesting, to preserve the figs' aroma, it is not recommended to store them in the refrigerator, as the skin can suffer from humidity and condensation.

The Fig Tree is often considered one of the most beautiful fruit trees. Its unique foliage gives it an ornamental aspect and provides a pleasant shaded space, especially during hot summer days. Plant the Fig Tree sheltered by a wall that will protect it from cold weather during harsh winters, with a south or southwest exposure, in the company of Pomegranate, White Mulberry, and Japanese Medlar in the southern regions of our country. In the north, it can be associated with Quince, Akebia quinata, and Feijoa, which are also hardy and exotic. Consider its dimensions when fully grown to determine the distance at which to plant it. Although the roots do not cause damage to modern buildings, they can cause damage to dry stone walls or walls built with weak mortar.