Black Genoa Fig Tree - Ficus carica 'Black Genoa'

Black Genoa Fig Tree, Ficus carica 'Black Genoa'

Few fruiting trees deliver the combination of ornamental presence and prolific yield that Black Genoa Fig commands. A mature specimen produces two crops annually, large, deep-purple fruit with intensely sweet, red-pink flesh, while contributing bold, architectural foliage to the landscape. Advanced stock means fruit production begins immediately, with no years of establishment to wait out.

Why Black Genoa Fig

Dual-cropping yield: Two harvests per season: a spring flush followed by a substantial summer-autumn main crop.
Self-fertile: No secondary pollinator required. A single specimen produces a full, reliable crop.
Drought tolerance: Once established, thrives in Australia's hot, dry climates with minimal irrigation input.
Architectural foliage: Large, deeply lobed leaves provide bold texture and canopy character beyond the fruiting season.
Espalier-capable: Responds well to formal training, making it well-suited to structured walls, courtyards, and tight site constraints.

Ideal Applications

Prestige kitchen gardens and productive estates: A high-yielding, visually striking anchor for formal edible landscapes.
Courtyard and enclosed outdoor rooms: Scale and form suited to contained, architecturally considered spaces.
Espalier installation: Ideal for training against boundary walls, heritage fences, or rendered surfaces in premium residential projects.
Containerised specimen planting: Performs well in large-format planters for rooftop terraces, podium gardens, and paved entertaining areas.

Specimen & Installation

Spacing (feature/avenue): 4–6m
Planting Season: Winter to early spring (bare-rooted); autumn to spring (potted)
Soil & Drainage: Well-drained, fertile soil; tolerates a range of soil types including sandy and clay loams; avoid waterlogged conditions
Establishment Care: Water deeply and regularly during the first two growing seasons to establish a strong root system, then reduce to occasional deep watering during dry periods. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it clear of the trunk.

Plant Details

Height: 3–5m
Width: 3–5m
Growth Rate: Moderate
Foliage: Deciduous
Light: Full sun
Native to: Western Asia and the Mediterranean region
Flower Colour: Insignificant