Fig
Ficus carica
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Fig (Ficus carica) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
120"–300" H × 120"–300" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native alternatives to Fig
Fig is not native to the United States. These natives fill a similar role in a planting, matched on bloom season, bloom color and mature size.
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 446 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaA large deciduous shrub or small tree with bold lobed leaves and soft sweet fruit in late summer. Common garden varieties set fruit without a pollinator. Roots are aggressive, so give it room away from foundations and pipes.
In an HOA neighborhood
Fig is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation bed, border.
- Aggressive roots; keep well away from foundations and pipes.
Wildlife value
Grown as an ornamental. Non-native plants support far fewer local insects than a native of similar size, so treat this as garden interest rather than habitat.
Common questions
- How much sun does Fig need?
- Fig grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Fig bloom?
- Fig blooms in May and June.
- Is Fig HOA-friendly?
- Fig is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Fig? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz