Alma Figs: A Guide to Grow, It’s Taste, and Nutritional Benefits

Alma Figs

Do you know one of the specialty of figs? Fig trees (known as anjeer trees) produce fruits 2 to 3 times around the year. Almost all the species of fig do so. Alma fig (Ficus carica) is one of the variety of fig that was developed by Texas A&M University in 1975.

Alma Figs, a species renowned for its delectable taste and nutritional benefits, have grown in popularity across the regions of Texas, Florida, and even Italy. The tree is dark green and leafy with small sized pear-shaped (Pyriform) fruits. The fruit peel is golden brown with amber pulp inside. The pulp is caramel flavored and is best for fresh and dried servings.

Alma Fig Trees

What are the difference between Fig vs Date?

Some may consider them similar but they have difference. Following table shows the differences

Fig
  • Grow on medium heighted – shade-giving tree
  • Available both in fresh and dry conditions
  • Don’t have pith (tiny seeds only)
  • Figs are not as sweet as dates
Date
  • Grow on tall palm trees
  • Available only in dry state
  • Have pith
  • Dates have sweeter taste

What are the Features of Figs?

Here is the list of pronounced features of Alma Figs;

  • Tree – Medium to tall, highly productive. The height may go up to 10 – 15 feet tall and 12-15 feet wide.
  • Leaf – Dark Green, may be un-lobbed or may have up to 3 lobes.
  • Fruit – Small to Medium, Pear-shaped (Pyriform), Brown in colour, succulent and sweet, ripe in fall season. The size of fruit is 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter.
  • Pulp – Sweet, anber to light yellow in colour
  • Seeds– Barely noticeable
  • Species – F. carica, F. palmata
Fruit of Alma Fig
Leaf and Pear-shaped Fruit of Alma Fig

Alma species of fig is a cross between Vernino AKA Allison (Female – 100% Carica) and Hamma Caprifig (Male – 50% Palmata). The cross lead to the production of Fig Alma.

The Alma Fig (Ficus) belongs to a family of over 800 species. Revered for its amber-colored skin and succulent flesh, it offers an exquisite blend of taste and nutrition. Ficus, synonymous with quality and taste, is an exciting find for culinary enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals alike.

If you are planning to plant this, you must know the planting requirements of Figs

Planting Requirements of Alma Figs

following are the requirements for better growth.

  • Light requirements: Full Sunny days
  • Heat Tolerance: High
  • Water Requirements: Moderate, you can apply water once in a week
  • Drought Tolerance: Moderate
  • Soil: well drained, sandy to load soil
  • Soil pH: 6.0 to 6.5
  • Space: 12-15 feet apart
Alma Ripened Fruit

Which Type of Soil is Suitable for Fig’s Growth?

The soil plays a vital role in Alma Fig’s thriving growth. The well drained, sandy-loam, and rich soil of South Texas and other fertile regions provide the perfect nurturing ground. However, the plant is highly tolerant to light and poor soils.

Organic matter and well-draining soil compositions have proven most effective in growth of Fig Trees. Discover how you can prepare the right blend of soil in your garden to cultivate this amazing fruit.

What are the Regions where Alma Fig Grow Better?

It is much diverse with respect to the topographic preferences. From Greenville, North Carolina to sunny Italy, the Alma Fig adapts to diverse environments. Its hardiness makes it resilient to various climates, providing an incredible option for fruit cultivation.

How Pollination occurs in Figs?

The tree is self-pollinated. However it needs wind or insects (wasps) to carry out the process of pollination. The synchronization of growth, from the seed to a mature tree, requires particular attention to pollination by specialized wasps known as Fig Wasp.

Nutritional Benefits and other Uses of Alma Figs

Alma Figs are a powerhouse of nutrition. Their fruit is rich in antioxidants and beneficial for skin health. Research from Chicago’s nutritional labs and other prominent institutions validates the health claims surrounding this incredible fruit.

  • Figs are an excellent source of fresh and dried figs
  • Whether fresh or dried, the Alma Fig enriches your diet with health nutrients like vitamin C.
  • They are edible as fruit
  • The fruit can also make jams
  • Some regions use them for cooking as a dishes mixed with oatmeal and smoothies.

Conclusion

The Alma Fig, a marvel of cultivation from Texas A&M University, is a blessings for those passionate about both taste and nutrition. Its unique characteristics, from the amber pulp with a caramel flavor to the pear-shaped fruits, set it apart from other fig varieties. Whether considering its growth in varying soils and climates, its role in nutrition, or its versatile applications, the Alma Fig is the best of all the varieties. Its simplicity in care, adaptability, and unparalleled taste offer an exciting and enriching experience for all who have it in their gardens.

FAQs

Alma Figs are unique in their taste and appearance, often considered a delicacy.

A guide to ripeness and careful monitoring of skin color and texture provides the perfect harvesting cue.

Yes, with the right soil, pruning, and care, growing Alma Figs in your home garden is achievable and rewarding.

Bloom time for figs ranges from June to September. However, it may be ready with ripened fruit in fall season.

Coffee fields are rich in nitrogen and Fig requires nitrogen. Thus coffee fields are the most likeable by the fig plants.

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