Figs: The Ancient, Delicious, Slightly Weird “Fruit” (That’s Not Actually a Fruit)

Why Grow Figs?
Honestly, even without my mom’s strange obsession that turned into my own I think everyone should grow some figs for themselves. They’re awesome. Figs are low maintenance (especially varieties like Chicago Hardy), cold-hardy, yep, even if you live up north, beautiful plants with big tropical-looking leaves, super productive, one tree can give you pounds of fruit, and also self-pollinating (again, no wasps needed for many varieties).

Plus, homegrown figs taste nothing like store-bought. Literally nothing like it. They’re juicier, more flavorful, and you get to pick them at peak ripeness, which grocery stores can’t replicate.
My other coworker Annie was shocked when she tried my figs and said they reminded her of peaches. She asked me for more of them every day this season, and I don’t blame her. She insisted she’d never had a real fig before trying mine.

Fun Fig Facts You’ll Want to Drop at Parties
Because if you’re like me, at parties you’re going to talk about the strangest things ) don’t worry, people will remember you. Try some of these out at your next family gathering or work event.

The word “fig” comes from the Latin ficus.

Figs are mentioned in the Bible over 40 times.

The Buddha achieved enlightenment under a fig tree (specifically a Bodhi tree).

Figs were used as a natural sweetener before sugar cane was widely available.

Cleopatra’s favorite fruit? Figs. Same, girl.

There are over 700 species of fig trees worldwide.

Pretty impressive for something that grows so quietly in the backyard.

Growing Your Own: Meet the Chicago Hardy
Okay, let’s talk specifics in case I’ve convinced you to try to grow some figs of your own. The Chicago Hardy fig is one of the best varieties for northern growers. It’s called “hardy” for a reason, it can handle temps down to -10°F with some protection.

It grows fast, produces plenty of medium-sized, dark purple figs, and is super forgiving if you forget to water it every once in a while (guilty).

The best part if you accidentally killed your fig tree? Even if it dies back to the ground in winter, it’ll regrow from the roots in spring. Total comeback kid vibes.

If you’re ready to add one to your garden, you can grab a live Chicago Hardy fig tree on Amazon and get growing. Trust me, watching that first fig ripen is the most satisfying thing ever! My tree is 4 years old now and I get so much fruit!

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