Ficus carica ‘White Marseilles’

Fig 'White Marseilles'

A popular cultivar – Thomas Jefferson’s favourite – of the common edible fig. Deciduous hardy tree with attractive, large leaves from late spring. Sunny spot needed for fruit production. Drought tolerant once established. Max height and spread 4m x 4m.

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Origin: Mediterranean and Western and Southern Asia, cultivar of horticultural origin

Genus: Ficus

Species / Cultivar: carica 'White Marseilles'

Common Name: Fig 'White Marseilles'

Synonym: Ficus carica 'White Genoa'

Plant Biography

Ficus carica is native to Syria and Persia. It is one of the earliest plants to be cultivated by humans, and has been recorded as cultivated in Britain since Roman times! Figs have a place in the mythology of a great many cultures, for example the Babylonian goddess Ishtar took the form of a divine fig tree Xikum, the ‘primeval mother at the central place of the earth.’

‘White Marseilles’ is a cultivar prized for its extremely sweet, almost transparent, flesh. Botanically speaking, the fig fruit is an ‘infructescence’ – a type of multiple fruit in a cluster (pineapples are another example of this).

Soil: Well drained

Soil that does not show much signs of moisture, either visibly or when handled.

Growth Rate: Fast

Expect to see prolific growth, especially during growing season.

Water Requirement: Low

Will grow in a drier position and is unlikely to need regular watering once established.

Maintenance: Low

Minimal skill or input needed beyond the basics, a very independent plant.

Situation: Full Sun

Wants direct, unfiltered sunlight most of the day, such as a south facing position.

Eventual Height: 2.5-4m

The plant's ultimate height in typical growing conditions.

Eventual Spread: 2.5-4m

The plant's ultimate spread in typical growing conditions.

Hardiness: Hardy

Survives unprotected in an average winter. May need protection in extreme long frosts.

Habit: Deciduous

Sheds all its foliage annually, so for a period of the year it will be without foliage.

Care & Size Guidance

To care for your Ficus carica ‘White Marseilles,’ ensure it’s planted in the warmest position possible, receiving full sun for at least 6-8 hours daily. Opt for well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil enriched with compost or aged manure. Maintain soil moisture, especially during the growing season, without allowing it to become waterlogged. Prune annually in late winter or early spring to shape the tree and encourage fruiting. Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support growth and fruit development.

Expect your White Marseilles fig tree to reach heights of 2.5-4 metres and a similar spread, depending on environmental factors and pruning habits.