Fig 'Chicago Hardy' (Ficus carica)
Regular price $19.95Cold-Hardy & Sweet—A Tough Fig for Northern Growers!
The Chicago Hardy Fig, also known as Bensonhurst Purple Fig, is one of the most cold-tolerant edible figs you can grow. Originating from the windy city itself, this variety is famous for its resilience, surviving temperatures as low as 10°F and regrowing from roots even after a harsh winter. Despite its toughness, Chicago Hardy produces abundant crops of small to medium-sized figs with deep purple skin and sweet, richly flavored red flesh.
Perfect for northern gardeners and those in Zones 6-10, this easy-to-grow fig thrives in containers or directly in the ground. Chicago Hardy makes a great addition to any edible landscape, food forest, or patio garden.
At Sow Exotic, our Chicago Hardy Fig plants come in 4" plantable biodegradable coconut coir pots, ready for easy, eco-friendly planting!
Plant Type:
Deciduous Fruit Tree
Harvest Season:
Spring, Summer, Fall
The first crop (breba) of fig fruit will ripen in late May through June, followed by the main crop will come in September through November.
Mature Size:
Fig trees grow up to 6-20 ft tall and wide, depending on variety. Growing fig trees in containers is quite easy, provided the roots have enough room to expand, and can also be pruned for bonsai or espalier. Fig trees go dormant and shed their leaves in the winter. This is an ideal time to prune.
Soil & Moisture:
Rich, moist, well-draining soil.
Light Requirements:
Full Sun, Part Shade
Fig trees also make really great houseplants indoors as long as they can get enough bright light.
Self-Fertile:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Medium
Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 6-11; Patio/Greenhouse 4+.
Cold hardiness depends on variety.
Propagation:
Our Fig trees are grown from cutting or micro-propagation and are capable of fruiting within 1 or 2 years.
See More:
We carry several different varieties of figs, all with their own unique flavors and features. Shop our Fig Trees.
Wondering about your USDA Growing Zone and what you can grow? 🌎🌿 Learn how to find your Zone and grow tropical plants anywhere—Florida to Alaska! 👉 Read the full blog here!
We ship every plant plastic-free and planet-friendly—using compostable packaging, recyclable pots, and carbon-conscious shipping from start to finish. 🌎🌱👉 Our Commitment to Packaging & Shipping Sustainability
