Black Mission and Other Types of Figs

Figs are believed to be the first cultivated fruit crop. They are still a part of today’s diets. Black Mission figs are the most popular, but other varieties have unique and appealing characteristics that make them a desirable fruit.

Mission Figs

Mission figs are also called black mission figs. Dried mission figs have thin dark purple skin and are slightly pink on the inside. Their mild, sweet, mellow flavor makes them a delectable addition to salads and an excellent addition to baked goods. Dried mission figs are also delicious when eaten as a solitary snack.

Organic figs are grown without the use of pesticides and toxic chemicals. Organic figs can be a nutritional addition to a health-conscious diet.

Common Figs

Common figs are what you see growing on shrubs in various locations throughout the United States. The shrubs aren’t winter-hardy in northern climates. The edible fruit from this shrub is harvested in the summer. This type of fig has a honey-like flavor and is quite juicy when ripe. Once the fig is washed and the stem removed, the fruit can be eaten peeled or unpeeled. Its culinary uses are extremely versatile.

Other Types of Figs

Brown Turkey figs have a reddish-purple skin with an amber interior. They have a mild, sweet, slightly hazelnut-like flavor. Soft Brown Turkey figs can be stuffed with cream cheese or sliced in half and serve as a side dish.

The rich sweetness and slightly floral flavor of Adriatic figs make them a popular addition to cheese trays. Adriatic figs are often used in baked goods and to make sweet syrup.

Celeste figs are sometimes referred to as the Sugar fig or common fig. Celeste figs can be used in sweet and savory dishes or eaten alone as a healthy snack.

Kadota figs have a mild sweetness but their flavor is uniquely different from the honey-like flavor many other figs have. Kadota figs are one of the best figs for drying.

Calimyrna figs have a sweet, yet earthy, nutty flavor. Calimyrna figs are a naturally sweet snack packed with flavor and nutrition.

Caprifigs is a type of fig tree unlike any of the previously mentioned figs. Caprifigs produce inedible fruit. Its purpose is to produce pollen that fertilizes certain types of edible figs.