Notice

Colin Mills, compiler of the Hortus Camdenensis, died in late November 2012 after a short illness. As he always considered the Hortus his legacy, it is his family's intention to keep the site running in perpetuity. It will not, however, be updated in the near future.

Ficus carica ‘Large white from Provence’

A cultivar of Ficus carica L. ‘Fruit large, oblong, with a short foot-stalk. Skin white and thin. Pulp white, but often more or less tinged with purple, sweet and rich. Ripe in August.’ [George Lindley – Orchard Guide p.167/1831].

 

 

Horticultural & Botanical History

The fig described by Lindley as ‘Large White’ may not be identical to Macarthur’s plant but was probably similar. Two varieties of white fig, ‘White Hanover’ and ‘White Marseilles’ are shown at the top of the figure taken from Pomologia Britannica. The latter could well be Macarthur’s fig. I have no data on its origins and history. [PB pl.74/1812].

 

 

 

History at Camden Park

Listed in all published catalogues [Fig no.2/1843]. Possibly the ‘White Marseilles’ variety donated to the Sydney Botanic Garden by John Macarthur in 1824. Probably collected by John Macarthur on his tour of Europe with sons James and William in 1815-16.

 

 

Notes

Published Apr 24, 2010 - 01:26 PM | Last updated Jul 23, 2011 - 03:15 PM

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6 figs are illustrated, all pear-shaped, the skin colour varying from pale yellow to purple. Pomona Britannica pl.74, 1812.

Ficus carica: varieties of White Fig | PB pl.74/1812. 'White Marseilles' is at top right.

 

Family Moraceae
Category
Region of origin

Garden origin, unknown
Synonyms
Common Name

Edible Fig
Name in the Camden Park Record

Large white from ditto [Provence]

 

 
Confidence level medium