'Bordeaux' Fig Tree (Ficus carica) - Patio Fig Tree - 15 cm Pot - Height 50 cm - Set of 2

The Red Fig of Bordeaux (Ficus carica) is considered semi-hardy: it can tolerate short periods of moderate frost, down to around -8°C when well sheltered and planted against a warm wall. At lower temperatures, or during prolonged frost, the branches may freeze, and the base of the plant may be damaged if it is in a pot. When planted in the ground in the South or against a south-facing wall, it can overwinter without protection in many regions of France. Further north, a generous layer of mulch at the base and protective fleece over the branches help it survive the winter without damage.

The figs of the Bordeaux Red Fig tree ripen from late August through'October depending on'sunlight and the region. A ripe fig is easily recognizable: its red-purple skin softens slightly, a small drop of nectar may bead at the'fruit's eye, and it detaches without resistance at the slightest movement of the wrist. Never harvest it too early, because the fig does not ripen after picking.

Yes, the Bordeaux Red Fig is particularly well suited to container growing, making it an excellent choice for a sunny balcony or terrace. Its naturally compact growth habit allows it to be kept in a large container (30 to 50 litres for a mature plant) for several years. Choose a well-draining potting mix and apply a light dressing of potassium-rich fertiliser in spring to encourage fruiting. Water regularly in summer without allowing water to become stagnant in the'pot. In winter, move the pot into an unheated but frost-free area or protect it with horticultural fleece and place it against a sheltered wall.

When grown in the ground, the Bordeaux Red Fig Tree (Ficus carica) can reach a height of 3 to 5 metres at maturity, with a similar spread, but its growth remains moderate and easily controlled by pruning. Its naturally compact habit sets it apart from many other fig varieties, making it suitable for small gardens, corner spaces or container-grown cultivation. Without maintenance pruning, it will gradually increase in size over several years.

No, the Bordeaux Red Fig is a parthenocarpic variety: it produces fruit without needing 'a pollinator or 'another fig variety nearby. This characteristic makes it particularly practical for small gardens or balconies where there 'is no room for several trees. Traditional pollination by wild figs (via a specific insect, the fig wasp) 'is not necessary for this cultivated variety.

The best time to plant the Bordeaux Red Fig tree in the ground is in spring, fromApril to May, when the risk of late frosts has passed. The plant can also be planted in early fall (September to early October) in regions with a mild climate, allowing it to establish before winter. Avoid planting during periods of frost or intense summer heat. Prepare a planting hole twice as wide as the pot, improve drainage if the soil is heavy, and incorporate some well-rotted compost.

The figs of the Figuier Rouge de Bordeaux are renowned for their exceptionally sweet flavor and their pink, juicy, and melting flesh. Eaten fresh at harvest, they are a real treat for dessert or as a snack. They pair wonderfully with blue cheeses (Roquefort, Gorgonzola) or charcuterie such as prosciutto. In the kitchen, they are ideal for homemade fig jam, spicy chutney, tarts, or moist cakes. You can also dry them in the sun or in the oven at a low temperature to preserve them all t'hrough the winter.