Fig trees originated in Western Asia and are now a popular fruit tree grown in the Mediterranean. Over 700 fig tree names exist, although many overlap with one another. Read on for details about growing fig trees in Arizona and the best varieties to plant there.
Is It Smart to Grow a Fig Tree in Arizona?
Fig trees are an excellent fit for Arizona’s climate, as they thrive in dry, warm weather.
Most of these trees grow large, ranging from 10 to 30 ft in height. Their big, glossy leaves are a joy to have during the spring and summer, as they offer a tropical appearance to yards. However, prepare to rake the leaves in the fall, for these trees are deciduous.
Types of Fig Trees That Grow Well in Arizona
You can grow many types of fig trees in Arizona. However, certain varieties require warmer and dryer conditions than others. So, below are the best fig trees to include in your Arizona landscaping.
Conadria Fig Tree
Conadria fig trees thrive in at least eight hours of sunlight per day. Their green skins can tolerate the hot days and cold nights that are typical in Arizona’s desert.
Unless you prune it, you can expect your Condria fig tree to grow up to 12 feet high. These figs produce sweet, bright red flesh, and you can often harvest over ten pounds of fruit per tree from early August to October.
Brown Turkey Fig Tree
Brown Turkey fig trees are among the most popular figs to grow in the U.S., including in Arizona. As with many fig species, the Brown Turkey tree has two annual fruit harvesting seasons.
Since Brown Turkey fig trees pollinate themselves, you can get away with planting only one tree. These trees grow best if you plant them beside a south or west-facing wall, as it’ll help them absorb the high amount of heat they require to thrive.
Kadota Fig Tree
Kadota is the type of fig you usually find at a grocery store, and it just so happens that they excel at growing in Arizona climates. These figs have a greenish-yellow exterior and a brownish-red interior. They ripen best when they have access to lots of direct sunlight.
You’ll need to water your Kadota fig tree regularly, with them often requiring one or more waterings per week during periods of high heat in Arizona. Due to their pest-resistant nature, these trees are low-maintenance.
Black Mission Fig Tree
The Black Mission fig tree is a hardy option for Arizona climates because it enjoys full sun and a hot environment. Black Missions are unique because they begin producing figs faster than most other fig tree varieties.
Black Mission fig trees are what botanists call a “low chill” variety. Therefore, they need about 100 hours of being at low temperatures during the winter, yet another reason they’re an excellent fit for Arizona.
Fignomenal Fig Tree
If you don’t have the space or desire to plant a full-sized fig tree in your Arizona yard, Fignomenals make excellent potted plants. These figs grow just over two feet high and wide at their largest.
They still produce delicious fruit, though, containing dark brown skin and a beautiful pink center. Despite the Fignomenal tree’s small size, they have medium-sized fruit. Although Figomenals love Arizona’s sun, you should move their pot inside during the winter, as they don’t handle cold weather well.
Are You Ready To Plant Fig Trees in Arizona?
Fig trees thrive in Arizona, especially if you live in the southern and western regions of the state. As a whole, these trees like lots of sunlight and a moderate amount of water.
Many fig trees in Arizona also thrive in the cold temperatures in the desert at night. Nevertheless, certain fig trees have a lower tolerance for the cold. For this reason, it’s vital to assess your fig tree options before choosing the suitable variety for your Arizona yard. It’s also worth noting that wildlife such as chipmunks, possums and deer can eat figs.