Desert King Fig Tree: A Fig Variety Built for Arid Environments

Overview of the Desert King Fig Variety

The desert king fig is a variety of fig particularly well-suited to hot, dry growing conditions. With its small, tough leaves and extensive root system, it can thrive with very little water, where other fig varieties would struggle.

The fruit of this fig is small, averaging 1-2 centimeters in diameter. The skin is a warm amber color and the flesh a deep red, making for an attractive and colorful addition to the landscape, even when not bearing fruit.

Description

They have a compact growth habit, making them ideal for container gardening or small gardens. Mature trees reach 6–8 feet tall and wide. Leaves are green on top and lighter green beneath, thickly veiled in dust.

Growing Zones

As the name implies, they have been cultivated to thrive in USDA zones 8–11. Their natural drought tolerance allows them to be grown with minimal irrigation in hot climates like the Sonoran desert and Central Valley of California.

Brief History

This fig variety was developed in Israel in the 1960s by agricultural botanists who focused on creating cultivars adapted to arid conditions. Since its release, desert king figs have become a popular choice for edible landscaping and backyard food production in suitable warm regions.

You might like: Growing Avocado Trees in Arizona: Tips and Tricks

Care of Desert King Figs

Watering Needs

They are extremely drought tolerant once established, only requiring irrigation during extreme heatwaves or prolonged dry spells. Approximately 1 inch of water every 2–3 weeks is typically sufficient to keep a mature tree healthy.

Soil Preferences

These trees can grow in many well-draining soil types but thrive in sandy or loamy soils with a neutral pH. It’s best to amend clay-heavy soils with organic matter like compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot.

Sunlight Requirements

For optimal fruit production, these trees need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. They’ll tolerate some shade but yields may be lower in areas with less exposure. Always situate the tree in a spot with good airflow too.

Fertilizing

Minimal fertilizing is usually necessary for these figs due to their slower growth in warm, arid conditions. A balanced, organic fertilizer can be applied monthly during the main growing season from spring through fall.

Pruning for Shape and Production

Prune out any dead or diseased wood in winter. In subsequent years, shape the tree and remove some old interior wood to make room for new growth and increase fruit production. Maintain an open canopy for sunlight penetration.

Planting Desert King Figs

Best Time to Plant

Late winter or early spring (February–March in warmer zones) is generally the best time to plant desert king fig cuttings or nursery-grown trees so the roots have time to establish before the heat of summer. Fall planting is also possible in some regions.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting, ensure the soil drains well by working in 2-4 inches of organic matter like compost, peat moss or chopped leaves. Raise the planting area slightly to prevent fungal issues from poor drainage.

Planting Technique

Plant fig cuttings shallowly with the bud facing up, about 1 foot apart in amended soil. Space-potted desert king fig trees are 3-5 feet apart, depending on their mature size. Water well after planting and apply 2-3 inches of mulch.

Cuttings vs Starters

It’s possible to propagate new desert king fig trees from semi-hardwood cuttings in late spring. However, buying nursery-started trees ensures higher survival rates, especially for beginners. Both methods work.

Pests and Diseases of Desert King Figs

Common Pests

Given their hot, dry growing habitat, they are naturally resistant to many pests. Occasionally encounters scale, aphids, spider mites or fruit flies may occur, usually in times of drought stress.

Signs to Watch For

Check leaves frequently for small, white or gray spots indicative of pests like scale or mites. Pay attention to ripeness of figs, as fruit flies may lay eggs in overripe or damaged fruit.

Organic Pest Control

A forceful spray of water to dislodge pests is a gentle first step. Horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps effectively control soft-body pests. Beneficial predatory insects like ladybugs provide natural, long-term control.

Disease Resistance

They have shown good tolerance to common fig diseases like rust and leaf blight when properly cared for. Ensuring good airflow and not overcrowding trees reduces likelihood of fungal issues in humid climates.

Harvesting Desert King Figs

Determining Ripeness

Figs ripen from the inside out, so check the eye for color changes. Ripe figs will be slightly soft all over with no hard spots inside when gently squeezed. Skin color may vary during ripening.

Picking and Storage

Harvest figs using scissors or pruners so as not to damage the tree. Ripe figs can be enjoyed immediately but will keep fresh in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks.

Yield Potential

A mature, healthy fig tree will bear around 10–15 pounds of fruit each season. Yields may be lower in the first few years as the tree establishes itself. Production peaks in late summer through early fall.

Uses of Desert King Figs

Fresh Eating

Enjoy this raw for a mildly sweet treat. The flesh has a jammy texture. Wash briefly and eat within a day or two for peak freshness.

Preserving Figs

Fresh figs can be dried, frozen, or turned into jam, chutney or fruit leather for year-round enjoyment. Drying concentrates their sweet flavor.

Culinary Inspiration

Bake figs into pastries, stuff them with mascarpone, or chop and sprinkle over salads for natural texture and taste. Their mild nature pairs well in compotes, relishes and barbecue sauces too.

FAQs About Growing Desert King Figs

How long until my fig tree bears fruit?

Newly planted desert king fig cuttings may take 2-3 years to mature enough for a modest harvest. Established nursery plants often fruit within the first year.

Can figs be grown in containers?

Yes, they are well-suited for growing in pots. Choose a container at least 18″ wide and deep, with good drainage.

Do figs require winter dormancy?

Desert king figs continue slow growth year-round in warm climates. In colder zones 8–10, they may lose leaves but do not need rigorous winter protection.

When is the best time for pruning fig trees?

Winter or early spring, before new growth begins, allows for shaping and air pruning with less stress on the tree. Light summer pruning maintains the canopy.

How can I tell if my fig tree is getting enough water?

Check the soil moisture; the top few inches should be dry before watering again. Leaves may start to wilt, and tree growth will slow if it is consistently underwater.

Conclusion 

Desert king figs are remarkably well-adapted to hot, arid environments through their small size, leathery leaves, and extensive root systems.

Homeowners in USDA zones 8–11 can grow this low-maintenance tree with minimal irrigation for a bountiful, seasonal harvest of sweet figs.

Their ease of cultivation makes desert king figs an excellent choice for edible landscaping, permaculture designs, or beginning home food production in suitable climates.

With the right care, these drought-tolerant fig varieties will reward growers for years to come with tasty, nutritional fruits.