Common fig 'Brown Turkey' (Ficus carica 'Brown Turkey')

Common fig 'Brown Turkey'

Also known as: Fig 'Brown Turkey'

Common fig 'Brown Turkey' is an ancient cultivar of the common fig, also known as the ‘negro largo’ or long black because of its sizeable purple-brown-colored fruit. This hybrid produces abundant fruit and grows up to 6 m high - shorter than its parent which reaches heights of 10 m. Note that the 'Turkey' referenced in the name likely refers to its native territory rather than the bird.

Scientific classification

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper, Yellow, Purple, Gold, Lavender, Pink

Fruit Color

Green, Purple, Brown, Lavender

Flower Color

Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Quickly Identify Common fig 'Brown Turkey'

Large, deeply lobed leaves, 5-10 inches (13-25 cm) long and 4-7 inches (10-18 cm) wide.

Medium-sized fruit, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long, with purple-bronze skin and pink pulp.

Robust, deciduous shrub reaching 10-30 feet (3-9 meters) in height and width.

Small green flowers bloom inside a syconium, not easily visible, forming near leaf axils.

Trunk transitions from smooth silver-gray to knobbly texture with age, up to 10 inches (25 cm) in diameter.

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Care Guide for Common fig 'Brown Turkey'

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Common fig 'Brown Turkey', native to the Mediterranean, thrives in moderate humidity and prefers drier conditions. Watering should be twice a week, allowing soil to dry slightly. For optimal growth and fruit harvests, consistent watering is essential during its active growing season.

Fertilize: Common fig 'Brown Turkey' requires minimal fertilizer: use compound fertilizer 2-3 times yearly for garden plants, and every two weeks for potted ones. Apply in the evening, reduce in winter, and adjust nitrogen and potassium for variegated types to maintain color.

Pruning: Common fig 'Brown Turkey' thrives with early spring pruning, focusing on dead wood removal, branch thinning, and encouraging growth. This practice improves air circulation and sunlight access, boosting fruit yield while shaping the plant for easier management. Regular annual pruning maintains common fig 'Brown Turkey''s productivity and health.

Propagation: Common fig 'Brown Turkey' is robust and adaptable, making it suitable for propagation through cuttings. Gardeners should select healthy, mature stems during the active growth phase. Plant cuttings in well-draining soil and maintain moisture for successful root development into independent plants.

Repotting: Repot common fig 'Brown Turkey' every 2-3 years in spring to support moderate growth. Use a larger, well-draining container for root expansion. After repotting, maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging and provide bright, indirect light to promote healthy growth.

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