The Ficus carica ‘Précose de Dalmatie’, often known in English simply as the Dalmatian fig, is a charming fruiting plant admired both for its decorative foliage and its delicious produce. This variety is a type of common fig, originally from the Dalmatian coast, and it is well suited to warm, sunny conditions.

The plant features broad, deeply lobed leaves with a lush green colour that gives it a Mediterranean feel, even when grown indoors or on a sheltered patio. The foliage is deciduous, meaning it will drop its leaves in the cooler months before regrowing in spring. Despite losing its leaves, the bare branches remain quite sculptural during winter.

In terms of size, when fully mature and grown in suitable conditions, the Dalmatian fig can reach around 2–3 metres in height, though when kept in pots—like this 40 cm tall, 15 cm pot version—it stays compact and manageable.

The fruiting is one of its highlights. It typically bears large, greenish-yellow figs with a pinkish-red interior, which are wonderfully sweet and aromatic. The first crop (known as the breba crop) often appears in early summer, with a second harvest possible in late summer to early autumn under favourable conditions. Although not grown for flowers, since figs produce an internal blossom hidden within the fruit, the fruit itself is considered the plant’s main attraction.

Caring for a Dalmatian fig is relatively easy. It appreciates a sunny, sheltered position—ideally a south-facing window or terrace if grown indoors in cooler climates. The soil should be well-draining yet kept slightly moist, especially during the growing season. It’s best to water deeply but infrequently, allowing the top layer of soil to dry between waterings. Overwatering can cause root problems. During winter, reduce watering as the plant rests. A light feeding with a balanced fertiliser during spring and summer helps promote fruiting and healthy leaf growth.

The Dalmatian fig has no thorns, and it is not particularly fragrant, but its fruit’s sweet scent can fill the air when ripe. Being a fig, it is also self-fertile, so even a single plant can produce fruit without the need for pollination partners.

Note: The milky sap of fig plants can be slightly irritating or toxic if ingested or if it comes into contact with sensitive skin, so it’s best to handle with care and keep it away from pets and children.

Altogether, the Ficus ‘Précose de Dalmatie’ is a delightful blend of beauty and practicality—an elegant houseplant or patio tree that rewards even modest care with lush leaves and delicious fruit.