Ficus carica 'Becnel's Italian Black'

Also Known As

Becnel's Italian Black Fig

Plant type

tree, shrub, fruit / vegetable

size

H: 10'-20'
W: 10'-20'

planting zones

7a-11

More Options

Ficus carica 'Becnel's Italian Black' plant details

Ficus carica 'Becnel's Italian Black' is a broadleaf deciduous fruit / vegetable, shrub or tree with green foliage. In spring cream flowers emerge followed by brown fruit. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and regular - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Does well in average, rich and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant, humidity tolerant and seaside / salt tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Ficus carica 'Becnel's Italian Black'

Plant type: fruit / vegetable, shrub or tree
Plant family: moraceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 10 FT - 20 FT - wide, 10 FT - 20 FT - tall
Flowers: cream blooms in spring
Uses: edible, heirloom, tropical-looking

GROWING CONDITIONS for Ficus carica 'Becnel's Italian Black'

USDA Zones: 7a - 11
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: regular - low
Resistant to: deer, heat, humidity and seaside / salt
Soil needs: average, rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

An heirloom medium to large fig with glossy black skinned fruit and deep red flesh that is treasured for its flavor and reliability. Italian Black ripens in mid-season but is also known to produce an early crop on old wood as well as a late crop on new wood in mild winter climates. This heirloom fig originates from the Becnel family nurseries in southeastern Louisiana. Fig trees do best where they get at least 8 hours of direct sun per day. Once well established they are fairly drought tolerant but extended dry periods can cause leaf and fruit drop as well as early dormancy. A deep organic mulch will help to alleviate extremes in moisture levels, reduce nematode issues, as well as to reduce competition from weeds.