Spadafora Dark

About

Spadafora Dark is a Sicilian variety named after the commune of Spadafora in the province of Messina. It produces medium to large figs with very dark purple to near-black skin and deep wine-red flesh with a rich, complex sweetness. Sicily's long, hot, dry growing season produces this variety at its best, and the variety has been cultivated there for centuries as part of the island's renowned fig-growing tradition.

Growing Notes

• Full sun and warmth are essential — this is a Sicilian variety through and through.
• Good productivity when conditions are right; less productive in cool or wet summers.
• Prune to an open form to maximise sun penetration and air circulation.
• Excellent for fresh eating and preserves; dries well in a warm climate.
• Cold hardiness moderate — protect below −7 °C (19 °F).

My Notes

One of my favourite dark Sicilian varieties. Grown against the south-facing wall where it gets maximum heat reflected off the brickwork. A warm, sheltered spot genuinely unlocks this variety's potential.