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Description
Cold-Hardy, Sweet Fruiting Fig
Common Names: Olympian Fig
Family: Moraceae
Origin: Mediterranean, Adapted in the Pacific Northwest
The 'Olympian' Fig (Ficus carica) is a cold-hardy fig variety known for producing large, sweet, and juicy fruits. Originally cultivated in the Pacific Northwest, this variety is prized for its ability to thrive in cooler climates, making it an excellent choice for gardeners in colder regions. The Olympian Fig bears large, purple-skinned fruits with a rich, sweet red flesh that is perfect for fresh eating, preserves, and desserts. It is a fast-growing, self-fertile tree that produces abundant fruit in both early summer and fall, making it a highly productive addition to any garden.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value
Fruits: Olympian Fig produces large, pear-shaped fruits with purple skin and rich, sweet red flesh. The fruits are flavorful, with a honey-like sweetness and a soft, jammy texture, making them perfect for eating fresh, drying, or preserving.
Growth Habit: The tree grows as a small to medium-sized deciduous tree, typically reaching 8-10 feet tall. Its compact size makes it suitable for small gardens or container growing.
Nutritional Value: Figs are rich in dietary fiber, potassium, calcium, and antioxidants. They are low in calories and make a healthy, natural sweet treat that supports digestive health and heart health.
Culinary and Medicinal Uses
Olympian Figs are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. The sweet, honeyed flavor of the fresh fruits makes them a delicious snack on their own or added to salads, baked goods, or charcuterie boards. The fruits can also be dried, made into jams and preserves, or used in desserts such as fig tarts and cakes.
Figs have long been valued for their medicinal properties. They are a natural source of fiber, which supports digestion and helps prevent constipation. Their high potassium content supports heart health and helps regulate blood pressure. The antioxidants in figs help reduce inflammation and promote overall well-being.
