With a name fit for a champion, the Olympian fig doesn’t disappoint. This super-sized purple-skinned fruit was introduced in 2014 and is a delicious addition to a variety of recipes.
Packed with nutrients and flavor, this fig variety is not to be overlooked. Keep reading and learn all about this newly developed fruit.
Simply looking to buy an Olympian Fig tree? Check availability.
Characteristics of the Olympian Fig
Appearance
The Olympian Fig has a purple and green striped exterior and red to violet flesh. It grows to be as large as a tangerine, about 2 to 2.5 inches in diameter. They grow on slender trees and have bright green five-pointed leaves along their branches.
Taste
This fig variety is known for being extremely sweet and flavorful. Its delectable taste makes it the perfect ingredient to sweeten any recipe.
Fig Health Benefits
Figs are an incredibly nutrient-dense fruit, making them a great addition to your daily diet.
Figs promote digestive health by nourishing the intestines. Their high fiber content allows them to work as a natural laxative and support healthy bowel movements. This also helps aid in diet quality and weight management.
Figs are also rich in antioxidants and can support healthy blood pressure and bone health. The Health Benefits of Figs are truly endless and make this sweet fruit more than just a delicious treat.
Ways to Enjoy
Fig Jam
Turning your Olympic Figs into a bright and sweet fig jam is an easy and delicious way to use these large fruits. All you need is sugar and lemon juice, and you have the perfect spread for toast, crackers, and even your favorite grilled cheese. Check out this Fig Jam recipe for more details.
Olympian Fig Jam Cookies
Because of their high level of sweetness, turning Olympic Figs into cookies is a no-brainer. Packed with fiber and antioxidants, a healthy dessert has never tasted so delicious.
Use Olympian Figs in place of the Mission variety, and you have the perfect Olympian-Approved Fig Jam Cookies.
Fresh Fig Salad
Looking for the perfect appetizer or side dish? Look no further. You can make a fresh Fig Salad complete with arugula, pecans, and goat cheese using your Olympic Figs.
Buying Olympian Figs
When to Buy Them
Olympian f trees are extremely resistant to cold temperatures. This allows the trees to grow throughout the winter and spring months and the fruits to be harvested in the spring, summer, and fall months.
The first crop often ripens in late May, followed by the main crop in September through November
Where to Buy Them
During their harvesting season, you can find Olympian Figs at a variety of grocery stores. Whole Foods Market, Walmart Supercenter, and Trader Joe’s all report selling this fruit.
Check out your local farmers’ market if you’re looking for a farm-to-table source. These figs can often be found at local fruit stands. Here, they’ve been grown and harvested locally, often making them the freshest and most flavorful choice.
Growing Your Own Olympian Figs
Growing your Own Olympian figs is easy as long as you have the right materials. Most people start by planting an already partially grown fig tree rather than just a seed.
Suppose growing a fig tree from home seems like a daunting task; fear not. Take a look at our Beginner’s Guide on How to Grow a Fig Tree for all the information you need to make this a fun and simple process.
Where to buy an Olympian Fig Tree
If you want to start growing your own figs, Stark Bros carry an excellent section of fig trees.
Soil
The Olympian fig tree grows well in standard potting soil containers. When planted in the ground, this tree thrives in well-drained loam with lots of organic matter.
Sunlight
This fruit thrives in full sun. Be sure that it has full access to sunlight in the summer months. It should be moved indoors in the winter months, and the soil should be kept moist.
Care Tips
Be sure to add high-nitrogen fertilizer to your tree every four weeks in the spring and summer. It should also be moderately watered throughout this time.
For more information on the best fertilizers, check out our top 5 Best Fig Tree Fertilizers to help you grow delicious figs.
When choosing where to plant, it’s important to note that fig trees put down deep roots if given the chance, and they should be spaced at least 20 feet from nearby plants or other obstacles.
During the dormant season, make sure to remove all dead and weak branches to improve your plant’s growth. Other than this, not much pruning is required.
Harvesting
You should only harvest your Olympian figs when fully ripe, as they will not ripen once off the tree. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re fully colored and slightly soft to the touch.
When picking the fruit, wear gloves, as the sap may irritate your skin, store your figs in the fridge to keep for two to three days. For long-term storage, you can also freeze or dry the figs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need two fig trees to pollinate?
The Olympian fig variety is actually self-pollinating, so no insects or manual pollination methods are necessary, making them perfect for beginner home gardeners.
Can eating too many Olympian Figs be harmful?
Although very healthy, everything should be enjoyed in moderation. Due to their high fiber content, eating too many figs can result in gastric pain, indigestion, and constipation.
Can I grow my own fig tree from a seed?
Although much more challenging, growing your own tree from a fig seed is possible. Make sure to use viable seeds and that the necessary growing conditions are available.
Wrapping up the Olympian Fig
Packed with flavor, nutrients, and weather-resistant growth, The Olympian fig truly lives up to its name. This fit-for-an-olympian fruit is both easy to grow and to enjoy.
Whether you’re looking to wow your friends with delicious appetizers or add a daily dose of fiber and antioxidants into your diet, this fig has it all.
Eager to learn more about figs? Keep reading about all things figs and fig trees!