Chicago Hardy Fig Tree

The Chicago Hardy Fig is the top-choice variety for growing in colder zones. It produces a good crop in late summer and fall, of round, purple-brown fruits with strawberry-pink flesh. The large leaves are divided into three lobes, without the deep divisions seen in some other varieties. This compact bush can grow to 12 feet in warmer zones, but is usually smaller in cold areas. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot, or grow it against a south-facing wall as an espalier. It is great for containers, which can be left outdoors all winter in zone 7, but keep them in a cold garage or shed in colder areas.

• The best variety to grow in colder areas
• Round fruit has purple-brown skin and deep-pink flesh
• Fruits in late summer and early fall
• Compact and excellent for growing in pots
• Good for espalier on a sunny wall

For the best crops from your Chicago Hardy Fig, plant it in full sun. It grows and fruits even in zone 5, and should be planted in well-drained soil, or in a porous potting mixture. Once established it is drought resistant, and only needs watering in summer if the leaves begin to turn yellow. It is usually free of pests or diseases, and the only care needed is to remove any dead branches in spring. Wait until buds swell so you can see what is truly dead.