How to Grow Fig Tree LSU Purple
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Fig Tree LSU Purple
Ficus carica 'LSU Purple'
treeLSU Purple is a cold-hardy fig variety developed by Louisiana State University, producing dark purple fruits with a sweet, rich flavor. This cultivar is notable for its ability to thrive in cooler climates than most fig varieties and produces fruit on both main crop and breba crop cycles. It's an excellent choice for gardeners in the Gulf South and Mid-Atlantic regions seeking reliable, productive fig trees.
When should you plant Fig Tree LSU Purple in your zone?
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Example Fig Tree LSU Purple timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Fig Tree LSU Purple
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Fig Tree LSU Purple
Around Sep 14≈ 150 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Fig Tree LSU Purple dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 7-9 are ideal; hardy to zone 7a with winter protection
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Get my Fig Tree LSU Purple timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
Year 1Young tree focuses on root development with modest above-ground growth
Water regularly to establish roots. Provide support stake if needed. Remove any competing growth.
Vegetative Growth
Years 2-3Tree develops main scaffold branches and foliage canopy
Prune to establish open, vase-like form with 3-4 main branches. Remove crossing or diseased wood. Apply balanced fertilizer in spring.
Breba Crop
April-JuneLarge figs develop on previous year's wood in late spring/early summer
These are the first crop; handle gently. LSU Purple produces reliable breba crop. Ensure adequate watering.
Main Crop Development
July-OctoberNew figs form on current season's shoots in summer and develop through fall
Continue regular watering. Avoid over-fertilizing which promotes excessive foliage at expense of fruit. Monitor for pests.
Dormancy & Hardening
November-MarchTree drops leaves in fall and enters winter rest period
Reduce watering. In zone 7, mulch heavily around base (8-12 inches). Consider wrapping trunk and lower branches with burlap in harsh winters. Remove mulch in spring.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove affected branches; maintain tree health; use sticky traps; ensure good air circulation
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil; increase humidity
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and
Hand-pick if population is low; use row covers on young trees; apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) if needed
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Generally beneficial for pollination; minimal control needed unless excessive
Uses
Fresh eating and desserts
CulinaryLSU Purple figs are delicious eaten fresh, used in jams, pies, and pastries. The sweet, rich flavor with subtle honey notes makes them ideal for both simple preparations and gourmet applications. [source]
Preserves and dried figs
CulinaryThe figs dry well for long-term storage and can be made into preserves, compotes, and fig spreads. High sugar content makes them excellent for natural preservation methods. [source]
Digestive and laxative properties
MedicinalFigs contain compounds that support digestive health and mild laxative effects. Traditionally used in herbal medicine for gastrointestinal wellness. [source]
Ornamental landscaping
HouseholdLSU Purple's attractive form, large lobed leaves, and productive nature make it valuable as an ornamental shade tree and edible landscape element. Works well in containers in colder zones. [source]
Wildlife food source
WildlifeFig trees provide important food for birds and beneficial insects. The tree supports pollinators and beneficial predatory insects while offering nutrition to local wildlife. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Figs are ripe when fully colored (dark purple), soft to gentle touch, and slightly drooping on the stem. Harvest in morning when skin has warmed slightly. Twist gently or cut with short stem. Peak harvest is August-October for main crop; June-July for breba crop. Ripe figs do not ripen further after picking, so harvest at full maturity.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 LSU Purple was specifically bred by Louisiana State University for cold hardiness, making it one of the hardiest fig varieties available and suitable for zones where other figs struggle.
- 🌱 Figs are technically not fruits but inverted flowers—the edible part is a hollow receptacle containing hundreds of tiny flowers inside, which is why fig seeds are so numerous.
- 🌱 Fig trees have been cultivated for over 11,000 years, making them one of humanity's oldest cultivated plants, predating agriculture itself in some regions.
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