What you need to know about figs
The fig is the edible fruit of Ficus carica, a species of small tree in the mulberry family. Native to the Mediterranean and western Asia, the fig has been cultivated since ancient times. So, where are figs grown and what are their benefits? Here is the answer...
12punto
The fig plant is a small deciduous tree or large shrub that grows up to 7-10 meters (23-33 ft) tall, with smooth white bark. Its large leaves are three to five-lobed.
The fruit is teardrop-shaped (botanically an infructescence, a type of multiple fruit), 3-5 centimeters (1.2-2.0 in) long, and has green skin that can ripen to purple, and a brown, sweet, and soft reddish flesh containing numerous crunchy seeds.
The milky sap of the green parts is an irritant to human skin.
GROWS IN TEMPERATE CLIMATES
In the Northern Hemisphere, the fresh fig season is from late summer to early autumn. They are tolerant of moderate seasonal frosts and can even be grown in hot summer temperate climates.
Figs can be eaten fresh, dried, or processed into jams, rolls, biscuits, and other types of desserts. Since the ripe fruit does not transport well and does not keep well, most commercial production is in dried and processed forms.
A SOURCE OF FIBER
Raw figs contain roughly 80% water and 20% carbohydrates, with very little protein, fat, and micronutrient content.
They are a moderate source of dietary fiber.
In 2018, global raw fig production was 1.14 million tons, with the largest producers collectively accounting for 64% of the total, led by Turkey and North African countries (Egypt, Morocco, and Algeria).
ABOUT THE FIG FRUIT
- The fig is the only plant among the approximately 800 species in the fig genus, which belongs to the mulberry family (Moraceae), that produces commercially significant fruit.
- The trees are divided into female and male; both female and male organs are not found on the same tree.
- Female trees have large and abundant fruit, while male trees have small and few fruits, and their fruit is not as edible as that of the females, but it is necessary for pollination.
- Generally, only one male tree is planted near many female trees for pollination.
- Pollination in the fig plant occurs via fig wasps. This process is called 'Caprification'.
- The nutritional value of the fruits is high. The composition of the fruits consists of 30-40% sugar and vitamins A, B, and C.