Habitat and Range
Fig grows in moist open places under 2800 ft throughout the Sierra. It has escaped from cultivation and is suited for California's dry summer subtropical climate, which is very similar to the Fig's native Mediterranean climate.
Physical Description
The Fig has distinctive leaves that are very deeply, palmately lobed. The deep finger-like lobes radiate from the base (palm) of the leaf (hence, they are palmately lobed). The lower surface of the leaf is slightly hairy. Fig trees can grow 30 ft tall, but are usually much shorter. Another distinguishing characteristic of the Fig is that the stems exude a milky latex when cut. The inflorescence is a giant receptacle that holds and covers the minute flower parts inside. The flowers are pollinated by small wasps that temporarily live inside the fig receptacle. The fruit (fig) is purple when ripe and is generally 2 inches long.
Food Uses
Like the cultivated variety, the fruit can be eaten raw or used used to make pies and other desserts.The Fig fruit can also be dried and stored for later use or eaten as a trail snack.
Medicinal Uses
None known at this time.
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