Figs (Ficus carica) are oval to pear shaped fruits with a thin edible outer skin, mushy pink pulp, and tiny white seeds.
Natural vitmains, minerals, and nutrients found in Figs: Vitamin B6 | Calcium | Dietary Fiber | Potassium |
How to choose Figs: Figs are best when they are mushy and soft, but you can buy figs firm and allow them to ripen at home. Look for figs with a good smell, and few blemishes.
Climate and origin: Figs originated in Asia minor and are one of the first fruits to be cultivated. Figs do best in warm temperate to sub-tropical climates, but there are some hardy varieties which can grow in colder climates. (zones 5-10 in the U.S.)
Taste: Figs have a subtle fragrant taste and the degree of sweetness varies widely by variety.
Miscellaneous information: The most popular fig for drying and shipping, Black Mission Figs get their name from Spanish Missionaries who introduced figs to San Diego California in the late 1800s.
Health Benefits of Figs:
- Reduced Risk of Colon Cancer
- Alleviation of Cardiovascular Disease
- Alleviation of Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- Osteoporosis Protection
- Stroke Prevention
*Some of these health benefits are due to the nutrients highly concentrated in Figs, and may not necessarily be related to Figs.
How to choose Figs: Figs are best when they are mushy and soft, but you can buy figs firm and allow them to ripen at home. Look for figs with a good smell, and few blemishes.
Climate and origin: Figs originated in Asia minor and are one of the first fruits to be cultivated. Figs do best in warm temperate to sub-tropical climates, but there are some hardy varieties which can grow in colder climates. (zones 5-10 in the U.S.)
Taste: Figs have a subtle fragrant taste and the degree of sweetness varies widely by variety.
Miscellaneous information: The most popular fig for drying and shipping, Black Mission Figs get their name from Spanish Missionaries who introduced figs to San Diego California in the late 1800s.