DFIC 0023 Palmata Hybrid Fig

Hybrid cross of Ficus carica x Ficus palmata from UC Riverside/USDA Wolfskill Repository. Extremely vigorous, fast grower reaching 7-12 feet in first year with spidery growth habit. Large fuzzy leaves with red petioles. More frost tender than pure carica, hardy to approximately 10°F. Speculation exists it may be immune to Fig Mosaic Virus due to palmata genetics. Excellent vigorous rootstock for grafting.

Smyrna-type requiring fig wasp caprification. May drop fruit without pollination. With wasp produces medium purple figs with reddish hue, deep strawberry-red pulp. Hairy/hirsute fruits with delicate skin. Intense unique berry flavor, moderately to very sweet. Mid-season ripening (early August-October). Most growers without wasp access experience fruit drop.

Originated UC Riverside DFIC collection (Davis Fig Introduction Collection) at Wolfskill Experimental Orchard, designated DFIC-0023. Part of palmata hybrid breeding research exploring nematode resistance, cold hardiness, vigor. Distributed through specialty nurseries and collectors. Primarily grown by collectors/researchers for palmata genetics and as vigorous rootstock rather than fruit production.