SCIENTIFIC NAME: Ficus carica 'Chicago Hardy'

COMMON NAME: Chicago Hardy Fig

GARDEN SIZE: Typically 10–15 feet tall and 9–12 feet wide under ideal conditions

GROWTH RATE: Moderate

USDA ZONE: 6-10 (requires winter protection in the colder part of its range)

EXPOSURE: Full Sun, but with protection from wind

WATER & SOIL: Prefers well-drained soil with moderate fertility. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Once established, figs are drought-tolerant but benefit from consistent moisture during fruit development. Avoid waterlogged conditions.

HABIT (FORM): Small deciduous tree or large shrub with a spreading form

FOLIAGE: Deciduous; Green

FLOWERS: Inconspicuous, hidden in the fruit.

FRUIT: Sweet, light purplish-brown figs with pink flesh that ripen in late summer; valued for both flavor and ornamental appeal

POLLENIZATION: Self-fertile

PLANT ORIGIN: Through parts of the Mediterranean and western Asia.

WILDLIFE SUPPORT: Offers some shelter and occasional nesting spots for birds and small mammals. While not a significant host or food source for local insects, its ripe fruits may be eaten by birds or other wildlife.

FERTILIZING: Apply a light feeding of compost or a balanced organic fertilizer in late winter or early spring to support healthy growth, fruit production, and winter resilience.

PRUNING: Requires little pruning; in early spring, remove any dead, damaged, or winter-killed branches to encourage healthy new growth.

TOXICITY: The ripe fruits are widely eaten by humans. The leaves, stems, and sap (latex) of the plant, along with the unripe fruits can be mildy toxic for pets and humans.

USES: Grown for edible fruits.