The LSU Purple fig tree, developed by the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, is a favored selection among home gardeners. Its popularity stems from its robust nature, adaptability, and consistent production of high-quality fruit. This variety is a productive and aesthetically pleasing garden addition.
Unique Characteristics
The LSU Purple fig produces medium-sized fruit, around 2 to 2.5 inches long, with a deep purple to burgundy skin that darkens as it ripens. The interior flesh is light amber or strawberry-red, offering a rich, sweet flavor with notes of maple sugar candy or mild berries and honey. This fig stands out for its “closed eye” (ostiole), a sealed opening at the fruit’s bottom that prevents pest entry and reduces souring.
The tree exhibits a vigorous, upright growth habit, reaching 8 to 10 feet tall and wide. Its deeply lobed, medium-green leaves give it a tropical appearance. The LSU Purple fig is self-pollinating, requiring no second tree for fruit production, and is cold-hardy in USDA zones 7 through 10. It also resists common fig ailments like fig rust and nematodes, making it a resilient choice.
Planting and Establishment
Selecting an appropriate planting site is essential for successful establishment. These trees require full sun exposure, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal fruit production. A southern or western exposure is ideal for maximizing sunlight.
The soil should be well-draining, with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.0. Amending the site with organic materials like compost or well-rotted manure improves soil fertility and structure, promoting healthy root development. When planting, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but only as deep. Place the tree at the same depth it was in its nursery container, backfill with amended soil, and water thoroughly to settle the soil. For container planting, select one at least 24 inches wide and deep with adequate drainage.
Ongoing Care
Once established, consistent watering is important for the health and productivity of LSU Purple fig trees, especially during dry periods and fruit development. While mature trees tolerate some drought, regular deep watering that allows the soil to dry slightly between applications is beneficial. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the tree’s base to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.
Fertilize judiciously; a balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be used in early spring. Over-fertilization, particularly with excessive nitrogen, can lead to lush leaf growth at the expense of fruit production. Prune in late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant. This maintains the tree’s shape, improves air circulation, and encourages new growth for future fruit.
Pest, Disease, and Problem Solving
LSU Purple fig trees have strong resistance to many common fig pests and diseases, partly due to their closed eye. However, issues can still arise. Fig rust, a fungal disease, appears as small, yellowish-orange spots on the undersides of leaves, turning darker and causing premature leaf drop. While rust usually does not severely harm the tree, cultural practices like good air circulation through proper spacing and pruning help manage it. Removing fallen, diseased leaves also reduces spore spread.
Root-knot nematodes, microscopic soil worms, are a concern, especially in sandy soils. The LSU Purple fig resists these nematodes, making it suitable for affected regions. If a tree shows leaf discoloration or reduced fruiting, it may be due to insufficient water or excessive nitrogen fertilization, which inhibits fruit development. Monitor soil moisture and adjust watering and fertilization to resolve these common problems.
Harvesting and Storage
LSU Purple figs ripen from mid-summer through the first frost, with mature trees producing multiple crops. Signs of ripeness include the fruit changing from a lavender or amber hue to a deep, glossy dark purple or burgundy. Ripe figs become soft to the touch and may droop slightly on the branch. A ripe fig should feel similar to a soft avocado when gently squeezed.
Check trees daily during the ripening season as figs can quickly become overripe. Harvest figs by gently twisting them from the branch to avoid damaging the fruit or tree. If rain is anticipated, picking ripe figs beforehand prevents splitting and souring. Freshly harvested LSU Purple figs are best enjoyed immediately due to their delicate nature. For short-term storage, they can be kept in the refrigerator for a few days.