CDD Grise

About

CDD Grise — short for Col de Dame Grise — is a celebrated French heritage variety whose name translates to “Grey Lady’s Neck,” a reference to its distinctively elongated neck and soft grayish-green skin. It is widely considered among the finest figs in the world for fresh eating, producing medium-to-large fruits with extraordinarily sweet, dense flesh that carries rich honey and berry undertones. The interior is a deep strawberry-red, and the texture at full ripeness is almost jam-like.

Growing Notes

• Mid-to-late season ripening; benefits from a warm, sheltered location to reach full sweetness.
• Skin colour is not a reliable ripeness indicator — harvest when the fig hangs down and yields softly to the touch.
• Performs well in containers; moderate vigour makes it manageable for patios and balconies.
• Prefers consistent watering during fruit development to avoid splitting.
• Protect roots below −5 °C (23 °F); wrap or bring containers indoors over winter in zone 6.

My Notes

One of the most anticipated ripeners in the collection. The combination of the elongated shape, grayish skin, and that deep red interior makes it instantly recognisable. Flavour lives up to the reputation — rich, complex sweetness that lingers. A must-have for any serious fig grower.