The ULTIMATE Fig Glossary & Jargon List for Fig Lovers
Figs (Ficus carica) are one of the oldest cultivated fruits, prized for their sweet flavor and versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned fig grower or a beginner, understanding horticultural jargon can help you optimize your fig tree’s health and productivity. This list covers everything from propagation techniques to pest management, ensuring you have the knowledge to grow thriving fig trees.
Acronyms, abbreviations, jargon, and “fig talk” are specialized terms or shorthand used in various fields, professions, or communities to convey information quickly and efficiently. And for sure there are many of these in the fig community and language…
This comprehensive list of fig related horticultural terms / jargons provides fig lovers with the knowledge needed to cultivate healthy, productive fig trees. From understanding soil conditions to mastering propagation techniques, this guide is your ultimate resource for fig cultivation. Happy growing!
Fig Types, Varieties
Fig (Ficus carica)
A deciduous tree or shrub belonging to the Moraceae family, cultivated for its sweet, edible fruit. Figs are one of the oldest cultivated fruits, with a history dating back to ancient times.
Ficus
The genus to which figs belong, comprising over 800 species, including ornamental plants like the rubber tree (Ficus elastica) and the weeping fig (Ficus benjamina).
Caprifig
A type of fig that produces inedible fruit and is primarily used to pollinate certain fig varieties, such as Smyrna figs. Caprifigs host the fig wasp, which is essential for pollination.
Common Fig
Self-pollinating fig varieties that do not require caprifigs or fig wasps for fruit production. Common figs are the most widely cultivated type.
Deciduous
Trees/Varieties that shed their leaves seasonally, typically in response to cooler temperatures or dry conditions.
Evergreen Fig
Fig varieties that retain their leaves year-round in tropical or subtropical climates. These figs do not experience a true dormancy period.
Smyrna Fig
A fig variety that requires pollination by caprifigs to produce fruit. Smyrna figs are known for their high quality and are commonly grown in Mediterranean regions.
Persistent Fig
A fig variety that retains its fruit even if not pollinated. Common figs are persistent, as they do not require pollination to produce fruit.
Caducous Fig
A fig variety that drops its fruit prematurely if not pollinated. Caducous figs are typically Smyrna or San Pedro types.
Self-Pollinating Varieties
Fig varieties that do not require external pollination to produce fruit. Most common figs are self-pollinating (parthenocarpic).
Parthenocarpy
The ability of some fig varieties to produce fruit without pollination. Parthenocarpic figs are seedless and do not require fig wasps.
Bonsai Fig
A miniature fig tree grown using bonsai techniques, often for ornamental purposes.
Cultivar
A cultivated variety of fig selected for specific traits, such as disease resistance or fruit quality.
Heirloom Fig
A traditional fig variety passed down through generations, often prized for its unique flavor or historical significance.
Hybrid Fig
A fig variety created by crossbreeding two different types, combining desirable traits from both parents.
Cold-Hardy Fig
A fig variety capable of withstanding colder climates, often requiring winter protection in zone 6 or below.
Tropical Fig
A fig variety suited to warm, humid climates, often evergreen and sensitive to cold temperatures.
Dwarf Fig
A compact fig variety suitable for small spaces or container gardening.
Dormancy, Hardiness
Hardiness Zone
The Canadian / USDA-defined regions where fig trees can grow based on climate conditions. Figs thrive in zones 7-10 but can be grown in colder zones with proper care.
Microclimate
The localized climate conditions around a fig tree, influenced by factors like sunlight, wind, and moisture. Microclimates can be manipulated to optimize fig growth.
Chilling Hours
The number of hours a fig tree requires at low temperatures (below 45°F or 7°C) to break dormancy and initiate new growth in the spring. Some fig varieties require specific chilling hours to break dormancy.
Dormancy
A period of rest for fig trees during colder months, during which growth slows or stops. Dormancy is essential for the tree’s health and fruit production.
Dieback
A condition where branches or shoots die from the tip back toward the trunk, often during winter, due to frost, drought, stress, or disease. Dieback can sometimes be managed by pruning affected branches and improving tree health.
Frost Damage
Injury to fig trees caused by freezing temperatures. Frost damage can be minimized by planting cold-hardy varieties and providing winter protection.
Acclimatization
The process of adapting fig trees to new environmental conditions, such as changes in temperature, humidity, or light. Acclimatization is important when moving plants indoors or outdoors.
General
Photosynthesis
The process by which fig trees convert sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into energy (sugars) and oxygen. Photosynthesis occurs in the leaves and is essential for growth and fruit production.
Variegation
A pattern of different colors on leaves, often due to genetic mutations. Variegated fig leaves are rare but highly prized for their ornamental value.
Lignification
The process by which fig stems become woody and rigid. Lignification provides structural support and allows the tree to bear heavy fruit loads.
Fig Leaf Tea
A herbal tea made from dried fig leaves, believed to have health benefits such as regulating blood sugar.
Node
The part of a fig branch where leaves, buds, or fruits grow. It’s where the action starts!
Internode
The section of branch between two nodes. Internode length can indicate the tree’s vigor and growth rate. Short internodes usually mean the tree is stressed or nutrient-deficient.
Cambium Layer
A layer of cells in fig trees responsible for secondary growth, increasing the tree’s diameter. The actively growing tissue in a fig tree’s trunk, responsible for producing new wood and bark. The cambium is vital for grafting success.
Latex
A milky sap produced by fig trees, which can cause skin irritation in some individuals. Latex is also used in traditional medicine and industrial applications.
Lenticels
Tiny pores found on the bark of fig trees that facilitate gas exchange, allowing the tree to “breathe.”
Petioles
The stalk that attaches a leaf blade to the branch or stem. In figs, petioles play an essential role in supporting the leaves and transporting nutrients.
Sapwood
The outer, living part of the tree’s wood that actively transports water and nutrients between the roots and leaves.
Heartwood
The dense, non-living central part of the tree trunk. It provides structural support but no longer transports nutrients.
Phyllotaxy
The arrangement of leaves on a stem or branch. In figs, this can affect light capture and overall tree health.
Calyx
The small, leaf-like structure at the base of the fig fruit, often remaining attached even after the fruit is harvested.
Soil
Well-Draining Soil
Soil that allows water to pass through easily, preventing root rot. Figs thrive in well-drained, loamy soils.
Clay Soil
Heavy soil that retains water, often requiring amendment with organic matter to improve drainage for fig cultivation.
Sandy Soil
Light soil that drains quickly, often requiring additional nutrients and organic matter to support fig growth.
Calcareous Soil
Soil rich in calcium carbonate. Figs can grow in calcareous soils but may require additional iron to prevent chlorosis.
Aeration
The process of introducing air into soil or growing medium. Essential for fig root health in containers.
Compost
Decomposed organic matter used to enrich soil. Compost improves soil structure, moisture retention, and nutrient availability.
Vermicompost
Compost produced using worms. Vermicompost is rich in nutrients and beneficial microorganisms, making it an excellent soil amendment.
pH Level
The measure of soil acidity or alkalinity, important for fig growth. Figs prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0).
Mycorrhizae
Beneficial fungi that form symbiotic relationships with fig roots, enhancing nutrient and water uptake and overall soil health.
Mulching
Applying organic material around the base of the tree to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Mulch also adds nutrients to the soil as it decomposes.
Mulch Basin
A ring of organic mulch applied around the base of the tree to conserve soil moisture, regulate temperature, and improve fertility.
Perlite
A volcanic glass used as a soil amendment to improve drainage. Beneficial for fig trees in containers.
Vermiculite
A mineral used in potting mixes to improve aeration and moisture retention. Can be used for fig tree propagation. Vermiculite is often added to potting mixes for container-grown figs.
Waterlogged
Soil that is saturated with water, leading to poor oxygen availability for roots. Waterlogged conditions can harm fig trees and should be avoided with proper drainage.
Soil Compaction
A condition where soil particles are pressed together, reducing root penetration and oxygen availability.
Top-Dressing
Applying compost or fertilizer on the soil surface to improve nutrient availability.
Fertilization
Fertilization
The application of nutrients to promote healthy growth and fruit production. Figs benefit from balanced fertilizers containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Organic Fertilizer
Natural fertilizers such as compost, manure, or bone meal. Organic fertilizers improve soil structure and provide slow-release nutrients.
Inorganic Fertilizer
Synthetic fertilizers containing chemical nutrients. Inorganic fertilizers provide quick nutrient availability but can lead to soil degradation if overused.
Organic Matter
Decomposed plant and animal residues that enrich the soil and improve its structure, water retention, and fertility.
Foliar Feeding
The application of liquid fertilizer directly to fig leaves to enhance nutrient uptake.
Macronutrient
Essential nutrients required in large amounts by fig trees, including nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). These nutrients support growth, flowering, and fruiting.
Micronutrient
Trace elements required in small amounts by fig trees, such as iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and manganese (Mn). Micronutrient deficiencies can lead to issues like chlorosis.
Leaching
The loss of nutrients from soil due to excessive watering or rainfall. Leaching can deplete essential nutrients for fig trees, requiring regular fertilization.
Propagation
Propagation
The process of creating new fig trees from seeds, cuttings, air layering, or grafting. A key technique for expanding orchards or growing specific varieties.
Hardwood Cuttings
Cuttings taken from mature, dormant wood during the winter season. These are often used for propagation because they have stored energy for root development.
Softwood Cuttings
Green, pliable cuttings taken during the active growing season. These are more fragile than hardwood cuttings but root faster under proper conditions.
Air Layering
A propagation method where a branch is encouraged to root while still attached to the parent tree. Generally a stem is wounded, wrapped in moist material, and encouraged to root while still attached to the parent plant. Once roots form, the branch is severed to create a new tree. This technique is often used for fig trees to produce clones.
Cuttings
Pieces of fig branches used to propagate new trees. Fig cuttings root easily and are a common method of propagation.
Rootstock
The root system onto which a fig variety is grafted. Rootstocks are chosen for their hardiness, disease resistance, or adaptability to specific soil conditions.
Grafting
A technique used to join two fig varieties, combining desirable traits such as disease resistance or fruit quality. The scion (upper part) provides fruiting qualities, while the rootstock (lower part) offers disease resistance or vigor.
Bud Grafting
A method of grafting where a single bud is inserted into the rootstock.
Scion
The part of a grafted plant that becomes the upper growth and produces fruit. The scion is selected for its desirable fruit characteristics.
Sucker
A shoot emerging from the base of the fig tree, often used for propagation. Suckers can be removed to maintain the tree’s shape or allowed to grow for new trees.
Micropropagation
A laboratory-based cloning technique where tiny fig tissue samples are used to grow genetically identical plants under sterile conditions.
Clonal Propagation
Propagating fig trees using cuttings or tissue culture to maintain genetic consistency. This method ensures the new plants retain the characteristics of the parent.
Asexual Propagation
Reproduction without seeds, such as cuttings or grafting. The primary way figs are propagated.
Tissue Culture Propagation
A laboratory method of cloning fig plants from cells in sterile conditions.
Callus
A protective tissue that forms over a wound or a cut. In figs, callus formation is essential for rooting cuttings and grafting.
Basal Callus
A protective tissue that forms at the base of fig cuttings before rooting begins.
Propagation Dome
A clear cover used to maintain humidity for fig cuttings during rooting.
Hardening Off
The process of gradually acclimating young fig plants after being grown indoors to outdoor conditions before transplanting. This process reduces transplant shock and improves survival rates.
Roots
Root Ball
The dense mass of roots and soil located at the base of a tree or shrub, essential for transplanting.
Root Bound
A condition where fig roots outgrow their container, becoming tangled and circling. Root-bound plants should be transplanted or root-pruned to encourage healthy growth.
Adventitious Roots
Roots that emerge from non-root tissues, such as stems, branches, or leaves, typically encouraged during propagation or when a tree is stressed.
Aerial Roots
Roots that grow above the ground, often seen in climbing or strangler figs. These roots help the plant anchor to surfaces or absorb moisture from the air.
Girdled Roots
Roots that circle around the base of the trunk, restricting growth and potentially killing the tree over time.
Root Flare
The widened area where the trunk transitions into the roots. Proper planting involves keeping the root flare above ground to prevent rot.
Root Collar
The transitional zone between the tree’s trunk and its root system. Maintaining the root collar at the correct soil depth is crucial to prevent diseases like root rot.
Bare-Root
Fig trees sold without soil, often dormant. Bare-root figs are easier to transport and plant, and they establish well in the ground.
Root Zone
The area of soil surrounding fig roots where water and nutrients are absorbed.
Canopy, Buds, Shoots
Canopy
The collective term for the leafy top layer of a fig tree. A healthy canopy provides shade, supports photosynthesis, and protects fruit.
Canopy Density
The thickness of a fig tree’s foliage, affecting light penetration and airflow.
Crown
The base of the fig tree, right above the root zone, where suckers often sprout.
Basal Shoots
New growth that emerges from the base of a fig tree. These shoots, also known as suckers, can sometimes compete with the main trunk but are often used for propagation.
Terminal/Apical Bud
The bud located at the very tip of a branch or shoot. It is responsible for extending the length of the branch.
Axillary Bud
Buds located in the axil (the angle between the leaf and the stem). These buds can develop into branches or fruit-bearing structures.
Apical Dominance
A hormonal control mechanism where the terminal bud suppresses the growth of axillary buds, focusing energy on upward growth.
Bud Break
The stage when buds on a fig tree begin to open in spring, signaling the start of the growing season.
Lateral Bud
A bud located on the side of a stem, capable of producing new branches or flowers. Lateral buds are important for shaping fig trees and encouraging fruiting.
Bud Swelling
The early stage of new growth when dormant buds begin to expand before breaking into leaves or flowers.
Adventitious Buds
Buds that develop in unexpected locations, such as on roots or wounded branches.
Latent Buds
Dormant buds that remain inactive until environmental conditions trigger their growth.
Suckers
Shoots that grow from the tree’s base or roots. These can sap energy from the main tree if not managed.
Growth
Top Growth
The above-ground portion of a fig tree, including the trunk, branches, leaves, and fruit. Proper management of top growth ensures healthy production.
Cane Growth
The development of long, straight shoots, common in young fig trees. These canes are typically pruned to shape the tree.
Epicormic Growth
Shoots that emerge from dormant buds beneath the bark, typically triggered by pruning, damage, or stress.
Vigor
The growth strength and health of a fig tree. Vigorous trees produce more fruit and are more resistant to pests and diseases.
Juvenile Phase
The early growth stage of a fig tree when it is not yet capable of flowering or fruiting. The juvenile phase can last several years, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
Flowers, Pollination
Caprification
The process of pollinating certain fig varieties using fig wasps that develop in caprifigs.
Syconium
The unique fruit structure of figs, which is an inverted inflorescence. The flowers of the fig are enclosed within the syconium, lining the inner cavity, and are pollinated internally. It serves as both a reproductive and protective chamber.
Ostiole
The small opening at the apex of a fig fruit, through which pollinators such as fig wasps enter. The ostiole is also the point where ripe figs may split during heavy rains.
Fig Wasp
A tiny wasp species that enters the fig through the ostiole to pollinate the flowers inside. The life cycle of the fig wasp is closely tied to the fig’s reproductive process.
Mutualism
A symbiotic relationship between figs and fig wasps, where both species benefit. The fig provides a habitat for the wasp, and the wasp pollinates the fig.
Pollination Drop
A droplet of liquid secreted by the fig’s ostiole to attract fig wasps. The droplet contains chemicals that guide the wasps into the fig.
Pollination Syndrome
Specific traits that attract fig wasps to a fig species for successful pollination, including scent and syconium structure.
Cross-Pollination
Transfer of pollen between two different plants. Necessary for Smyrna and San Pedro figs.
Gall Flowers
Flowers within the fig that house developing fig wasps. These flowers are sterile and do not produce seeds.
Male Flowers
Flowers in caprifigs that produce pollen for pollination. Male flowers are located near the ostiole and release pollen when fig wasps exit the fig.
Female Flowers
Flowers in figs that develop into seeds and fruit. Female flowers are pollinated by fig wasps, leading to seed production.
Seedless Figs
Figs that develop without fertilization, often through parthenocarpy. Seedless figs are preferred for fresh consumption and drying.
Seeded Figs
Figs that develop seeds through pollination. Seeded figs are often used for propagation or in traditional cuisines.
Crops, Fruits, Ripening, Harvesting, Preserving
Breba Crop
The first crop of figs produced on the previous year’s growth, typically appearing in late spring or early summer. Breba figs are often larger but less flavorful than the main crop.
Main Crop
The primary harvest of figs, occurring later in the season on new growth. The main crop is usually more abundant and flavorful than the breba crop.
Yield
The amount of fruit produced by a fig tree. Yield is influenced by factors like variety, pruning, fertilization, and environmental conditions.
Alternate Bearing
A tendency in fig trees to produce a heavy crop one year and a light crop the next. Proper pruning and fertilization can help balance fruit production.
Thinning
Removing excess fruit to improve the size and quality of remaining figs. Thinning is especially important for young trees to prevent overbearing.
Fruit Drop
The premature shedding of fig fruit due to environmental stress, nutrient imbalances, or insufficient pollination.
Ripening
The process by which figs mature and become edible. Ripening involves changes in color, texture, and sugar content.
Ethylene
A plant hormone that triggers fruit ripening. Ethylene production increases as figs mature, leading to softening and sweetening.
Harvesting
The process of picking ripe figs from the tree. Figs are typically harvested by hand to avoid damaging the delicate fruit.
Post-Harvest Handling
Techniques used to preserve figs after harvesting, including cooling, drying, and packaging. Proper handling extends the shelf life of figs.
Drying
A method of preserving figs by removing moisture. Dried figs are a popular snack and ingredient in baking.
Fig Paste
A concentrated form of figs used in cooking and baking. Fig paste is made by cooking and pureeing figs, often with added sugar.
Fig Jam
A sweet spread made from cooked figs, sugar, and sometimes lemon juice. Fig jam is a popular condiment for breads and pastries.
Fig Preserves
Whole or sliced figs preserved in sugar syrup, often used as a topping or spread.
Fig Syrup
A sweet syrup made from figs, used as a topping or flavoring in beverages and desserts.
Fig Vinegar
A tangy vinegar infused with fig flavor, often used in salad dressings or marinades.
Fig Wine
An alcoholic beverage made from fermented figs, with a sweet and fruity flavor.
Brix Level
A measure of sugar content in fig fruit, indicating sweetness and ripeness.
Pruning
Pruning
The removal of branches to shape the tree, improve air circulation, and promote fruit production. Pruning is typically done during the dormant season.
Root Pruning
The deliberate cutting back or trimming of roots to control the size of the tree or to encourage new growth during repotting of container-grown figs.
Undercutting
A pruning method where lower branches are removed to redirect the tree’s energy to the upper canopy, promoting vertical growth and fruit production.
Defoliation
The loss or intentional removal of leaves. This can occur naturally (dormancy), due to stress, or through pruning to manage pests or diseases.
Pruning Scaffold
A framework of primary branches that provides structure to the tree and supports fruit-bearing wood.
Maintenance
Pinching
Removing the tip of a shoot to encourage branching and bushier growth in fig trees. Pinching is often used to shape young trees and improve fruiting.
Whitewashing
Applying a lime-based paint to the trunk to protect the tree from sunburn and deter pests.
Shade Cloth
A fabric used to protect young fig trees from excessive sunlight, preventing sunscald and heat stress.
Espalier
A training method where fig trees are pruned to grow flat against a wall or trellis. Espaliering saves space and can improve fruit quality by increasing sunlight exposure.
Trellis
A structure used to support and train fig trees, improving air circulation and fruit accessibility.
Cordon Training
Training a tree into a horizontal form. Sometimes used in fig espalier techniques.
Issues, Diseases, Pests
Biotic Stress
Living factors like pests, fungi, and bacteria that cause diseases or weaken the tree.
Abiotic Stress
Non-living factors like drought, frost, or high salinity that negatively impact tree health and productivity.
Chlorosis
Yellowing of leaves due to a lack of chlorophyll, often caused by nutrient deficiencies or poor soil conditions.
Fungicide Application
The use of chemical or organic treatments to control fungal infections on leaves, fruit, and bark.
Herbicide Tolerance
The ability of fig trees to withstand herbicide applications. While figs are generally sensitive to herbicides, some rootstocks may offer tolerance.
Leaf Rust
A fungal disease that creates orange-brown spots on the underside of leaves, weakening the tree and reducing photosynthesis.
Fig Rust
A fungal disease affecting fig leaves, causing yellow-orange spots and premature leaf drop. Fig rust can reduce the tree’s vigor and fruit production.
Spider Mites
Tiny pests that feed on fig leaves, causing discoloration and webbing. Spider mites thrive in hot, dry conditions and can be managed with miticides.
Fig Mite
A tiny pest that feeds on fig leaves and fruit, causing deformities and damage.
Fig Mosaic Virus (FMV)
A common viral disease causing mottled patterns on leaves. While not usually fatal, it can reduce tree vigor and fruit production. As fig trees mature and develop, they overcome this issue without any problem. Fertilizing and providing nutrients helps overcome this issue.
Aphid Infestation
A common pest issue where clusters of aphids feed on young shoots and leaves, causing curling, stunted growth, and honeydew buildup.
Leaf Miner
A pest whose larvae tunnel inside fig leaves, creating distinctive trails and damaging foliage.
Anthracnose
A fungal disease that causes dark, sunken lesions on leaves, stems, and fruit. Common in humid conditions and can severely impact fruit yield if untreated.
Canker
A bacterial or fungal infection causing sunken, discolored lesions on the bark or branches of the tree, often leading to dieback if untreated.
Nematodes
Microscopic worms that can damage fig roots, leading to stunted growth and reduced fruit production. Nematodes are a common problem in sandy soils.
Root Rot
A disease caused by waterlogged soil, leading to decay of roots. Root rot can be prevented by improving drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Leaf Scorch
A condition where fig leaves develop brown, burnt, dry edges due to drought, water stress, nutrient deficiency, salt buildup from over-fertilizing, or excessive sunlight. Proper watering and shading can prevent leaf scorch.
Wind Throw
A phenomenon where strong winds uproot or severely damage trees, particularly those with shallow roots.
Sunscald
Damage to fig bark caused by excessive sun exposure. Sunscald can be prevented by painting the trunk with whitewash or providing shade.
Windbreak
A barrier planted to protect fig trees from strong winds, which can damage branches and reduce fruit yield.
Irrigation
Irrigation
The controlled application of water to fig trees. Consistent irrigation is essential for healthy growth and fruit production, especially in dry climates.
Drip Irrigation
A water-efficient method of delivering water directly to the roots through a network of tubes and emitters. Drip irrigation delivers water directly to the base of plants, minimizing evaporation and runoff. Drip irrigation reduces water waste and prevents leaf diseases.
Drip Line
The outer edge of the tree’s canopy where water drips off leaves. This area often corresponds to the spread of the root system.
Fig Varieties Abbreviations
BBN
Bordissot Blanca Negra
BBR
Bordissot Blanca Rimada
BFF
Bass’s Favorite Fig
BM
Black Madeira
BM KK
Black Madeira KK
BNR
Bordissot Negra Rimada
Col de Dame Varieties
CDDB
Col de Dame Blanc
CDDBN
Col de Dame Blanca Negra
CDDG
Col de Dame Gris/Grise
CDDM
Col de Dame Mutante
CDDN
Col de Dame Noir
CDDR
Col de Dame Rimada
DK
Desert King
DTE
De Tres Esplets
GNAF
Genovese Nero AF (Antonio Ferrero)
HDA
Hative d’Argenteuil
LDA
Longue d’Aout
LMF
Little Miss Figgy
MBVS
Marseilles Black VS
NDB
Noire de Barbentane
RDB
Ronde de Bordeaux
RLBV
Red Lebanese Bekaa Valley
CDDB
Violette de Bordeaux
CDDB
Verdino del Nord
WM#1
White Madeira #1
YLN
Yellow Long Neck