Olympian Fig Tree: A Cold-Hardy Fruiting Delight

The Olympian Fig Tree (Ficus Carica) is an exceptional choice for gardeners seeking a reliable and delicious fruit-bearing tree. This variety, known for its ultra cold hardiness, produces very sweet figs with thin purple skin and a red to violet flesh. Discovered by retired biologist Denny McGaughy, the Olympian Fig is a unique heirloom variety that thrives even in cooler and coastal climates. Enjoy the satisfaction of harvesting your own fresh figs with this resilient and flavorful tree.

This award-winning fig tree is not only delicious but also relatively easy to care for. Its drought tolerance, once established, makes it a low-maintenance option for busy gardeners. Mulching heavily with organic materials helps conserve moisture and promotes healthy growth. The Olympian Fig responds well to pruning, allowing you to espalier it or prune it heavily in the dormant season to control its size and enhance fruit production. Its adaptability and delicious fruit make it a wonderful addition to any garden.

Key Benefits of the Olympian Fig Tree:

• Cold Hardy: Tolerates temperatures as low as 10 to 15ºF (-9ºC) with winter protection.
• Delicious Fruit: Produces very sweet figs with thin purple skin and red to violet flesh.
• Drought Tolerant: Requires minimal watering once established.
• Easy to Prune: Responds well to pruning for size control and increased fruit production.
• Unique Heirloom Variety: A distinct cultivar discovered and DNA-tested to confirm its uniqueness.

Cultivation Tips: For optimal growth, plant your Olympian Fig Tree in a location with part sun to full sun exposure. Ensure the soil is well-drained and maintain average moisture levels. This fig tree is hardy in USDA Zones 6-10 and can be grown as far north as Zone 5 with winter protection. Even if frozen, the tree often resprouts from the roots and produces a crop the following summer. These plants come in 2.5″ x 2.5″ x 2.5″ deep pots.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is the ideal location for planting my Olympian Fig Tree? Choose a spot with part sun to full sun and well-drained soil.
2. How often should I water my Olympian Fig Tree? Water regularly until established, then water moderately as needed.
3. What is the best way to protect my fig tree during the winter? Mulch heavily around the base of the tree and consider wrapping the trunk with burlap for added insulation.
4. How big will my Olympian Fig Tree get? With regular pruning, it can be maintained at a manageable size, typically 6-10 feet tall.
5. When can I expect to harvest figs from my Olympian Fig Tree? Typically figs are ready for harvest in the summer.