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
| Family | Moraceae |
|---|---|
| Category | |
| Region of origin | Garden origin, unknown |
| Synonyms | |
| Common Name | Edible Fig |
| Name in the Camden Park Record |
Small blue from Provence
|
| Confidence level | low |