Fig Ficus carica 'White Marseilles' (F)

Names

• Synonyms

  White Marseilles Fig, Marseilles Fig.

• Common names

  Ficus carica 'White Genoa', Ficus carica 'White Marseille'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The common fig plant is generally not toxic to humans when the fruit is consumed ripe. However, the sap of the fig plant contains ficin and psoralen, which can cause skin irritation or phytophotodermatitis in some individuals, especially when exposed to sunlight after contact. It's important not to ingest the leaves or sap because that could potentially cause irritation of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. But eating the fruit of the common fig, including the 'White Marseilles' fig, is typically safe and does not lead to poisoning.

• To pets

  The common fig is considered to be of low toxicity to pets. However, the sap of the fig contains ficin and psoralen, which can be irritating. If pets come into contact with the sap, it can cause dermatitis or skin irritation. Ingestion of large amounts of fig leaves by pets might lead to gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting, diarrhea, or salivation. The ingestion of the fruit itself is generally not a problem, but moderation is key to prevent any potential stomach upset due to the fiber content.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Height

  10-30 feet (3-9 meters)

• Spread

  10-20 feet (3-6 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  7

• Native area

  Western Asia

General Benefits

• Edible Fruit: The White Marseilles fig produces sweet, delicious fruit that can be eaten fresh, dried, or used in cooking and baking.
• Shade Provider: With its large leaves, the fig tree offers a generous amount of shade, making it a great addition to gardens and outdoor seating areas.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The tree adds ornamental value to the landscape with its attractive foliage and architectural branching pattern.
• Low Maintenance: Fig trees are known to be hardy and require minimal care once established, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
• Wildlife Attraction: The fruit attracts birds and other wildlife, providing a natural way to enjoy and support local ecosystems.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, White Marseilles fig trees are quite drought-tolerant, making them suitable for xeriscaping and water-wise gardening.
• Long-Lived: Fig trees can live for many years, providing enduring benefits to the garden and property.
• Soil Enrichment: The tree's root system can help to prevent soil erosion and enrich the soil with organic matter as leaves fall and decompose.

Medical Properties

• Antioxidant activity: The figs of the Ficus carica species contain antioxidant compounds that can help to neutralize free radicals in the body.
• Anti-inflammatory effects: The plant's fruit extracts may reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial for inflammatory conditions.
• Laxative properties: Figs have traditionally been used to aid in digestion and alleviate constipation due to their high fiber content.
• Antidiabetic potential: Some studies suggest that fig leaf extracts may have a positive effect on blood glucose levels.
• Antimicrobial action: The sap and other parts of the plant have shown antimicrobial properties against certain bacteria and fungi.
• Prebiotic function: Figs can act as prebiotics, supporting the health of beneficial gut bacteria.
• Skin health: Ficus carica extracts are sometimes used in skincare products for their potential hydrating and antioxidant effects.
• Wound healing: Traditional uses include the application of fig fruit or leaves to wounds to promote healing.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• The leaves of the fig tree can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, giving them a light yellow to brown color depending on the mordant used.
• Fresh fig leaves can be used in cooking as a wrap for grilling fish, meat, or vegetables, imparting a smoky-sweet flavor to the dish.
• Dried fig leaves can be turned into a tea which has a coconut-like flavor and is enjoyed for its unique taste.
• The latex from the fig tree is sometimes used as a natural garden pesticide due to its irritating properties to insects.
• Figs can be used to make a natural and biodegradable scrub by blending dried figs with other ingredients, useful for exfoliating skin.
• Fresh or dried figs can serve as a natural sweetener in baking, replacing refined sugars in recipes like cakes and cookies.
• The wood of the fig tree can be crafted into utensils or ornamental objects, often appreciated for its smooth grain.
• Ficus carica wood can be used as a source of fuel, burning well and providing a good source of heat.
• The fig tree's bark can be processed and used in the production of durable paper products.
• Ripe figs, when crushed, can act as a gentle and natural hair conditioner, giving shine and softness to the hair.

Feng Shui

The Common Fig is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Common Fig is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Fertility and Abundance: The common fig, including Ficus carica 'White Marseilles', carries the symbolism of fertility and abundance due to its prolific fruiting tendencies and the nutrient-rich figs it produces.
• Knowledge and Enlightenment: Figs are historically associated with knowledge and enlightenment because of their connection to the Biblical story of Adam and Eve, in which they realize their nakedness and clothe themselves with fig leaves.
• Peace and Prosperity: In many cultures, fig trees are seen as symbols of peace and prosperity, likely stemming from their ability to produce fruit for extended periods, thus providing sustained sustenance and economic stability.
• Longevity and Resilience: The fig tree is known for its longevity and resilience, often growing in challenging environments and living for many years, hence symbolizing strength and the ability to overcome adversity.