Beer's Black Fig Tree

About Beer’s Black Fig Tree

Picture-perfect on the plate. Enjoy homegrown Beer’s Black figs. The rich magenta flesh is royal next to the violet skin; this fruit is worthy of a painting by one of the great masters. Often confused with Mission and Violette de Bordeaux figs, but should not be; the leaves are different as is the flavor. Beer’s Black are of medium size and have that rich, sweet, buttery unctuousness so sought after in a great fig. “Closed eye” when ripe; helps resist splitting and souring. An exceptional fig for drying, but especially for fresh eating. Self-fertile. Beer’s Black figs ripen in July.

Overwintering Fig Trees in Cooler Climates

If you experience temperatures below freezing, then additional winter protection is necessary for best results.

Potted figs should be placed in an insulated, unheated, preferably dark room or cool basement. Water them monthly until just moist so the roots do not dry out completely.

For fig trees planted in-ground, insulate as much as possible by getting creative. Use chicken wire and burlap or surround with straw bales stuffed with leaves. The pliable branches can be bent in to preserve as much as the plant as possible. What is not covered, will likely die back. Figs fruit on new growth and the insulated roots will send out new growth, even if the top dies.