California produces 100% dried figs and 98% fresh figs sold commercially in the U.S.
Pliny, the Roman writer (52-113 AD) said, “Figs are restorative. They increase the strength of young people, preserve the elderly in better health and make them look younger with fewer wrinkles.”
Figs add sweetness and flavor without added sugars. Try substituting figs for some of the sugar in baking!
Figs were respected in ancient Rome and considered sacred while, according to myth, the twin founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus, rested under a fig tree.
Need a food to get you in the mood? Figs are rumored to be an aphrodisiac!
The tiny stem is the only part you need to remove from the fig before eating.
Figs are harvested in the late summer and early fall, but because they are dried and conveniently packaged, they are available all year long.
Worldwide, the fig tree is the symbol of abundance, fertility, and sweetness.
The Turkish Smyrna fig was renamed Calimyrna in honor of its new homeland when it came to California in 1882.