LSU Tiger fig tree is moderately sized, typically growing to about 8 to 12 feet tall and wide. It can be kept smaller with pruning, making it suitable for smaller spaces or containers.
Leaves: The leaves are large, lobed, and deep green, providing good shade in the summer. The tree tends to have a bushy and dense growth habit.
Growth Habit: It has a rounded, compact form that makes it aesthetically pleasing in gardens. This tree can handle some pruning to maintain size or shape.
Appearance: The fruit is distinctive, with its vibrant striped skin. The LSU Tiger fig has a greenish-yellow skin with purple and orange hues when ripe, giving it a "tiger-striped" appearance, which is visually striking.
Taste: The flesh of the fig is a rich pink to reddish color and is very sweet, with a honey-like flavor. The fruit is prized for its excellent taste, making it a favorite for fresh eating.
Size: The figs are medium-sized, typically around 2 to 3 inches long.
Harvest Time: The LSU Tiger fig ripens in mid-summer to early fall, depending on the climate and growing conditions. It typically produces one crop of fruit per year.
Climate: The LSU Tiger fig is particularly well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10. It was bred to perform well in hot, humid climates, such as the southeastern U.S. It’s more cold-tolerant than some other fig varieties, making it a good option for areas with colder winters (down to about 15°F or -9°C with winter protection).
Sunlight: Full sun is ideal for the tree, as it helps the figs ripen fully and promotes healthy growth.
Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil is important for the LSU Tiger fig. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but like most figs, it thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soil.