Celeste Fig Tree

Ficus carica ‘Celeste’ is a cold-hardy fig with superbly delicious fruit. Hardy to zones 6-9, this pest- and disease-resistant tree produces rosy-purple figs with a soft, sweet interior. Enjoy the fruit fresh or use them in baking recipes for a sugary treat. The nutritious figs complement savory foods and are a welcome addition to fruit and cheese trays. The figs can be dried or canned to enjoy year-round, while the edible leaves can be dried for tea. As a bonus, Celeste Fig Tree makes an excellent accent plant with its compact form and large, lobed leaves.

Celeste Fig Tree Care  

Celeste Fig Trees are best planted in spring or fall. They need full sun for healthy growth and fruit production. Plant them in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH. Although more cold hardy than many other figs, Celeste Fig Trees are prone to cold damage that can harm future fruit yields. Protect these trees over winter by encircling them with chicken wire wrapped with burlap and filled with straw. A heavy layer of mulch will help insulate roots. Celeste Fig Trees grow best with a few strong main branches. Pruning should be done in winter while the tree is dormant. Remove any dead, overlapping, or weak branches and suckers arising from the roots. 

Growing Celeste Fig Tree

Celeste Fig Trees grow 7-10’ tall and wide at maturity. These fruit trees are self-pollinating and do not require cross-pollination to produce fruit. Celeste Fig Trees bear fruit on new growth after 1-3 years in the ground. Expect fruit to ripen in summer, typically between June and September. Ripe fruit will turn from green to brown or purple with a softer feel. 

Celeste Fig Trees grow happily in pots. They are best started in 5-10 gallon containers filled with a well-drained potting mix. Repot the fig to a larger container every 2-3 years or as needed. To help this tree overwinter, move the container to an unheated, sheltered location such as a shed or garage. 

Watering Celeste Fig Tree

To ease establishment, Celeste Fig Trees need to be watered about 1-2 times per week during their first year after planting. Mature trees can be watered every 10-14 days during the growing season, especially during dry periods. Container-grown figs will need to be watered more often. 

Feeding Celeste Fig Tree 

Celeste Fig Trees can be fertilized in spring once new growth emerges. A slow-release, 10-10-10 formulation works well for figs, particularly those grown in nutrient-poor soils.

Celeste Fig Tree Information