FIGS
Figs (Ficus carica) are the edible fruit of deciduous trees that are in the Mulberry family. Figs are not a true botanical fruit, but rather a syconium — an inverted stem packed with hundreds of tiny hidden flowers! A question we often get in tandem with this is are there wasps inside your Figs? The answer? No! The Fig varieties that we cultivate develop entirely without fertilization or pollination, through a process called parthenocarpy (without pollination). The Figs that you find fresh or dried at the grocery store also ripen parthenocarpically — only the Calimyrna and San Pedro varieities require wasp pollination. Check out our Ripeness guide below so you know when to eat your Figs!
In season: Late August to October
Nutritional value: Figs are particularly rich in copper and vitamin B6. They are also a good source of fiber, making them a natural remedy for digestive problems and gut health — just don’t eat too many…
Storage tips: Only wash your Figs right before eating for the longest shelf life! We recommend storing them on your counter out of the sunlight until ripe. For storage for up to a few days, you can also place unwashed, completely dry Figs into a clean glass jar and seal it with a lid. In addition, you can also freeze them for future baking and jam endeavors!
Culinary uses: Similar to berries, Figs are versatile! Enjoy them fresh, add them to smoothies, bake them into desserts, make jam, or go the savory route and add to salads!
