Ficus carica ‘Small blue from Provence’

A cultivar of Ficus carica L. A number of figs were known as ‘Blue’ and were characterised by a purple or dark brown skin with a thick blue bloom.

 

 

Horticultural & Botanical History

‘Small Blue’ is given as a synonym for ‘Brown Turkey’: ‘Large and pyriform. Skin brownish red, covered with blue bloom. Flesh red and very luscious. Tree very prolific, hardy, and one of the best for out-door culture, as a standard. August and September.’ [Hogg – Fruit Manual p.74/1860].

This description is somewhat at odds with that of George Lindley: ‘Fruit small and round. Pulp very delicious. This and the Black Italian are mentioned by Mr. Forsyth, as being cultivated by him in pots, and each possessing equal merit.’ [George Lindley – Orchard Guide p.163/1831].

 

 

History at Camden Park

Listed in all published catalogues [Fig no.1/1843]. Probably collected by John Macarthur on his tour of Europe with sons James and William in 1815-16.

 

 

Notes

Published Apr 24, 2010 - 01:21 PM | Last updated Jul 23, 2011 - 03:17 PM


More details about Ficus carica ‘Small blue from Provence’
Family Moraceae
Category
Region of origin

Garden origin, unknown

Synonyms
Common Name

Edible Fig

Name in the Camden Park Record

Small blue from Provence

 

 

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