Fig Black Mission is a hardy, deciduous fruit tree prized for its very sweet, rich-flavoured figs. The fruit has deep purple-black skin and soft, strawberry-coloured flesh, making it delicious eaten fresh or used for jams and preserves. In the Western Cape, the main harvest generally ripens from February into autumn, with a smaller early crop possible in favourable conditions.
Fast-growing and naturally spreading, Black Mission is an excellent choice for home orchards and productive gardens. It is self-pollinating and produces attractive large, lobed leaves during the growing season. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, where it will reward you with generous crops and attractive seasonal interest.
Plant in full sun in fertile, well-drained soil. Water regularly while establishing and during fruit development, then reduce watering once established. Add compost when planting and feed during the growing season with a suitable fruit-tree fertiliser. Prune lightly in winter to maintain shape and remove unwanted growth, taking care not to remove too much of the previous season’s growth if you want an early crop. Avoid waterlogged soil.
Black Mission can produce two crops: a smaller early crop on the previous season's growth, followed by a larger main crop on new growth. This makes it particularly rewarding in a warm climate such as the Western Cape.
| Botanical Name | Ficus carica 'Black Mission' |
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Growth Expectancy
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4-6m H x 4-6m W
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Position
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Sun
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| Water Smart | No |
| Indigenous | No |
