The Ficus carica ‘Bornholm’ is a distinctive and robust fig variety, prized both for its decorative leaves and its sweet, edible fruit. Often simply referred to as the Bornholm fig, this plant brings a touch of Mediterranean charm to gardens, terraces, or even indoor spaces in cooler climates.
The foliage of the Bornholm fig is large, deeply lobed, and a rich green, giving the plant a full, lush appearance. Like other fig varieties, it is deciduous, shedding its leaves during the winter months and producing a fresh flush of greenery in spring. Its leaves are smooth and glossy, contributing to an attractive sculptural quality even when the tree is bare.
In terms of size, this fig can grow to 2–3 metres in height outdoors, although the 40 cm tall, 15 cm pot specimens are compact and ideal for patio or indoor cultivation.
The fruiting is one of the main attractions of the Bornholm fig. It produces medium to large figs with a greenish-yellow skin and a sweet, amber flesh, typically ripening from late summer into early autumn. As with most fig varieties, the flowers are inconspicuous, hidden inside the fruit, so the plant’s beauty comes from both its foliage and its bountiful harvest.
Care is straightforward: the Bornholm fig prefers a sunny, sheltered location and well-draining soil. Regular watering is essential during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged, while winter watering should be reduced to prevent root rot. It is hardy in temperate climates but should be protected from frost when young or in colder regions.
The plant has no thorns, is not strongly fragrant, and is self-fertile, meaning it produces fruit without needing another fig tree for pollination.
Note: Like other figs, the sap of the Bornholm fig can be mildly toxic or irritating to skin, so care should be taken during pruning or handling, and it should be kept away from pets and children.
Overall, the Ficus ‘Bornholm’ is an elegant, easy-to-grow fig variety, combining striking foliage with sweet, rewarding fruit—a versatile choice for both garden and indoor cultivation.
