Ficus carica 'Brown Turkey'

‘Brown Turkey’ fig is a multi-stemmed, woody, deciduous shrub with edible fruit in the mulberry family (Moraceae). This fig cultivar was bred to be more cold hardy than other fig cultivars and quickly grows to a mature size of 10 to 30 feet tall and wide.

Grow figs in full sun in organically rich, well-drained, moist soils that are neutral to acidic. Figs do not tolerate alkaline soils. Light pruning each winter may be necessary to maintain an attractive shape. Flowers and fruit will appear on either old or new growth. Mulch roots to maintain moisture and especially in the fall to protect them throughout the winter. 'Brown Turkey' requires protection from winter temperatures below 10 degrees F.  

This plant produces fruits without the need of pollination, so multiple plants are not required. It is one of the most popular figs grown in the United States with two harvests of its edible fruit each year, one in the late spring to early summer, and the second in the late summer to early fall. The fruits are enjoyed fresh or dried.   

Consider planting against a south or west wall or solid fence to take advantage of radiant heat or in other protected areas if planted in hardiness zones 5 to 7. Plant in a children’s, pollinator, winter, or edible garden. Plant it as a specimen and keep it close to a patio to more easily enjoy the fruit harvest and the interesting winter form. This plant grows well in containers, but containers must be overwintered indoors.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Aphids, mealybugs, root knot nematodes, and spider mites are occasional problems. Blight, leaf spot and rust are occasional diseases.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Vegetables, Herbs, Fruits, and Nuts," a plant identification course developed in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

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