Fig, 'LSU Purple' (12-18 inch bare root plant)

Key Characteristics

• Origin: 'LSU Purple' is a fig cultivar developed by the Louisiana State University Agricultural Experiment Station and introduced in 1991. It was bred for its adaptability to the hot, humid conditions of the South and for its high-quality fruit production. The LSU fig breeding program has a history dating back to the 1950s.
• Patent Status: Based on available information, 'LSU Purple' Fig is not currently under an active plant patent in the United States. As a cultivar released in 1991, any potential patent would likely have expired after the standard 20-year term from the filing date.
• Berry/Fruit Production: Produces medium-sized figs with a distinctive dark purple to almost black, glossy skin. The flesh inside is light strawberry to amber in color and has a sweet, rich flavor with high sugar content. The eye of the fig is typically closed, which helps prevent spoilage and insect infestation. 'LSU Purple' is known for being a prolific producer, often bearing three crops per year in warmer climates: a light early crop (breba), a heavy main summer crop, and a fall crop that can extend into December.
• Ripening Time: The ripening time for 'LSU Purple' figs is generally from **July through frost**, with the main crop typically maturing in the summer. The early (breba) crop ripens in late spring to early summer.
• Plant Size and Appearance: 'LSU Purple' is a deciduous tree or large shrub with a vigorous and upright growth habit. It typically reaches a mature height and spread of around 8-10 feet, but can be kept smaller with pruning. It has large, thick, deeply lobed green leaves.
• Flowers: Fig flowers are unique and are located inside the developing fruit (syconium), so they are not outwardly visible. Pollination is not required for common fig cultivars like 'LSU Purple' to set fruit (parthenocarpic).
• Hardiness: 'LSU Purple' is best suited for USDA Zones **7 through 10**. It is considered relatively cold-hardy for a fig, but may need protection in Zone 7, where top growth can be damaged by severe freezes, though the roots often survive. It can also be grown in containers in colder zones and brought indoors for winter protection.
• Pollination: 'LSU Purple' is self-fertile and does not require pollination from another fig variety to produce fruit. However, planting multiple 'LSU Purple' fig trees may increase the overall crop size.
• Growing Conditions:
  • Sunlight: Requires full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily) for optimal growth and fruit production.
  • Soil: Prefers rich, well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. It can tolerate various soil types but good drainage is essential.
  • Watering: Young trees should be watered regularly, about twice a week. Once established, it needs about an inch of water every 10 days, or when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry. Avoid overwatering.
  • Fertilizing: Generally, figs do not require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring can be beneficial, especially for young or less vigorous trees. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers.
  • Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the tree. Removing 1/4 to 1/3 of older branches can encourage new growth and increase fruit production.
• Uses: The figs are excellent for:
  • Fresh eating due to their sweet and rich flavor.
  • Drying.
  • Making jams, preserves, and other culinary uses.
  • Container growing, making it suitable for smaller spaces and colder climates.
• Wildlife Value: Fig trees can attract birds and other wildlife to the garden.
• Ornamental Value: With its attractive foliage and manageable size, 'LSU Purple' can also serve as an ornamental tree in the landscape.
• Disease and Pest Resistance: 'LSU Purple' is noted for its good resistance to pests and diseases, making it a reliable choice for home gardeners and commercial growers, particularly in humid climates.