The Violette de Bordeaux fig tree is a favorite among fig lovers, gardeners, and fruit tree enthusiasts. With its rich, sweet flavor, compact growth habit, and stunning deep purple skin, this fig variety is both a practical and beautiful addition to any garden or orchard.
Originating from France, the Violette de Bordeaux fig tree (also known as Negronne Fig) is prized not only for its delicious fruit but also for its ability to thrive in a variety of climates, making it an excellent choice for backyard growers. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, this guide will take you through everything you need to know about the Violette de Bordeaux fig tree—from its history and cultivation to care, harvesting, and culinary uses.
The Origins and History of Violette de Bordeaux
The Violette de Bordeaux fig is one of the most celebrated heirloom fig varieties, known for its rich, jammy flavor and deep purple-black skin. This fig’s history is intertwined with France’s long tradition of fig cultivation, dating back centuries to when figs were considered a delicacy among royalty, monks, and gardeners alike.
Ancient Fig Cultivation in France
While the exact origins of the Violette de Bordeaux variety remain somewhat mysterious, figs in general have been cultivated in France since the Roman era. The Romans, who highly valued figs for their sweet taste and medicinal properties, introduced fig cultivation to regions across Southern France, Spain, and Italy.
By the Middle Ages, figs were a common sight in monastery gardens, where they were grown for both their nutritional value and use in religious fasting meals. The mild Mediterranean climate of southern France, particularly in regions like Provence and Bordeaux, proved ideal for fig trees, allowing them to flourish with minimal care.
It was in this setting that the Violette de Bordeaux variety emerged—renowned for its small but intensely flavorful fruit, which could be eaten fresh, dried for storage, or used in preserves.
A Royal Favorite in French Gardens
During the 17th and 18th centuries, the cultivation of unique fig varieties became more refined, and the Violette de Bordeaux gained prominence in aristocratic gardens. French nobility and high-ranking officials, who had a fascination with exotic fruits, planted fig trees in their orchards and palace gardens.
The fig’s ability to produce two harvests per year (a smaller early crop and a larger late-season crop) made it especially desirable. Its compact size also made it suitable for formal garden layouts, where fruit trees were often trained into intricate shapes.
One of the most famous historical figures associated with fig cultivation in France was King Louis XIV, who adored figs so much that he ordered the construction of a massive fig orchard in the gardens of the Palace of Versailles. While Violette de Bordeaux is not specifically documented among the figs at Versailles, its popularity during this era suggests that it likely found a place in elite gardens across France
Violette de Bordeaux Expands Beyond France
A Fig with Global Influence
As France expanded its trade routes and colonial influence, fig cultivation spread to other parts of Europe, North Africa, and the Americas. French settlers brought their preferred fig varieties with them, including the Violette de Bordeaux, to regions where the climate was favorable.
By the 18th and 19th centuries, this fig variety had established itself beyond France, appearing in Spain, Italy, Portugal, and parts of England where dedicated horticulturists experimented with growing figs in greenhouses and walled gardens.
The Bordeaux region of France—famous for its wine—became a significant hub for cultivating and exporting this fig variety. Because of its strong association with the region, the name “Violette de Bordeaux” became the standard for this particular fig. However, in some places, it was also known as “Negronne,” a reference to its dark-colored skin.
Arrival in the United States
The Violette de Bordeaux fig made its way to the United States in the 19th century, brought by French immigrants and horticulturists who recognized its value.
One of the earliest mentions of this variety in the U.S. came from American agricultural journals and nurseries that were experimenting with different fig cultivars to determine which would thrive in the country’s varied climates. Southern states like Louisiana, Texas, and California—which have warm, Mediterranean-like conditions—proved ideal for growing this fig.
By the early 20th century, the Violette de Bordeaux had become a favorite among home gardeners, orchard growers, and fig enthusiasts who appreciated its compact size, reliable fruit production, and exceptional flavor.
Why Has the Violette de Bordeaux Fig Remained So Popular?
Over the centuries, many fig varieties have come and gone, but the Violette de Bordeaux has endured. Why?
1. Unmatched Flavor and Quality
Unlike larger, milder figs, this variety produces small but incredibly sweet fruit with a deep berry-like taste. Its jammy, rich interior makes it perfect for fresh eating, preserves, or gourmet dishes.
2. A Fig for Small Gardens and Urban Spaces
Unlike sprawling fig trees that can reach 30 feet, the Violette de Bordeaux remains compact, usually staying under 10 feet. This makes it ideal for:
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Small backyards
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Urban gardens
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Growing in pots and containers
3. Cold Hardiness Compared to Other Fig Varieties
While many figs require hot climates, the Violette de Bordeaux is more cold-tolerant than most. It can withstand brief freezes, making it a great choice for fig lovers in USDA Zones 7-9, and with proper winter protection, it can even survive in colder regions.
4. Dual Harvests for Extended Enjoyment
Many fig trees only produce a single late-season crop, but the Violette de Bordeaux is biferous, meaning it provides two harvests per year. This extended fruiting season is a major advantage for growers.
5. Natural Pest and Disease Resistance
This fig variety is known for being resistant to common fig diseases like fig rust and nematodes. It also has fewer pest issues compared to other fruit trees, making it relatively easy to maintain.
The Modern-Day Appeal of Violette de Bordeaux
Today, the Violette de Bordeaux fig continues to be a favorite among:
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Home gardeners looking for a manageable, high-yield fruit tree.
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Culinary enthusiasts who appreciate its intense sweetness and ability to pair with cheeses, wines, and desserts.
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Urban dwellers who want a fruit-bearing tree in a compact space or patio container.
It has become a staple in fig-growing communities, with nurseries frequently offering it due to its high demand. Whether grown in the backyards of California, the greenhouses of England, or the orchards of France, the Violette de Bordeaux fig tree remains a beloved variety cherished by fig enthusiasts worldwide.
Why Grow a Violette de Bordeaux Fig Tree?
If you’re considering adding a fig tree to your garden, here are some compelling reasons to choose the Violette de Bordeaux variety:
1. Exquisite Fruit with Unmatched Flavor
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The figs are small to medium-sized with a deep purple to black skin and vibrant red flesh.
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They offer a rich, sweet taste with berry-like undertones, making them one of the most flavorful fig varieties available.
2. Compact Growth – Perfect for Small Spaces
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Unlike larger fig trees, the Violette de Bordeaux stays relatively small, reaching 6 to 10 feet when mature.
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It’s ideal for urban gardens, patios, and container growing, making it perfect for those with limited space.
3. High Productivity with Two Harvests Per Year
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This fig tree is a biferous variety, meaning it produces two crops per year—a smaller breba crop in early summer and a larger main crop in late summer to fall.
4. Low Maintenance and Easy to Grow
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Fig trees are known for their resilience and adaptability, and the Violette de Bordeaux is no exception.
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Once established, they require minimal care, making them perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners.
5. Drought-Tolerant and Disease-Resistant
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This fig variety is drought-tolerant once mature, making it suitable for regions with hot summers.
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It also has a natural resistance to pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
How to Grow and Care for a Violette de Bordeaux Fig Tree
The Violette de Bordeaux fig tree is a fantastic choice for home gardeners, whether you have a large backyard or a small patio. It produces delicious, sweet figs while requiring minimal maintenance once established. To ensure your tree thrives and produces abundant fruit, follow these essential steps for planting, care, and maintenance.
1. Choosing the Right Location
The Violette de Bordeaux fig tree thrives when planted in the right spot. Selecting the ideal location will ensure strong growth and high fruit production.
Sunlight Needs
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Fig trees require full sun, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
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More sunlight leads to better fruit production and sweeter figs.
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In hot climates, some afternoon shade can help protect the tree from extreme heat.
Soil Requirements
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Fig trees prefer well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
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Loamy or sandy soil is ideal. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand.
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The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 6.5, though fig trees are adaptable to slightly acidic or alkaline soil.
Protection from Wind and Cold
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If you live in an area with strong winds, plant the tree near a fence or building to offer protection.
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In colder climates (Zones 6 and below), plant near a south-facing wall to take advantage of heat retention.
2. Planting Your Fig Tree
The Violette de Bordeaux fig tree can be grown in the ground or in a container, making it versatile for different climates and spaces.
Planting in the Ground
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Dig the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball.
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Prepare the Soil: Mix organic compost with native soil to improve drainage and fertility.
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Place the Tree: Position the tree in the hole, ensuring that the roots are spread out.
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Backfill Gently: Fill the hole with soil and press it down firmly to remove air pockets.
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Water Thoroughly: After planting, give the tree a deep watering to help it establish.
Planting in a Container
Growing a Violette de Bordeaux fig tree in a container is a great option for urban gardens, patios, and cold climates where bringing the tree indoors for winter is necessary.
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Choose the Right Pot:
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Select a large container (at least 15–20 gallons) to allow proper root development.
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Ensure the pot has good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
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Use Well-Draining Soil:
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A mix of potting soil, sand, and perlite ensures good drainage.
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Avoid heavy clay-based soil.
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Position the Pot in Full Sun:
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Place the container in a south-facing location or a sunny patio.
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If indoors, keep it near a bright window or use grow lights in winter.
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3. Watering Requirements
Proper watering is key to a healthy fig tree. While fig trees are drought-tolerant once mature, they need regular watering when young.
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Newly Planted Trees: Keep the soil moist but not soggy for the first two years.
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Established Trees: Reduce watering frequency, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
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Hot Climates: Water more frequently in summer, especially in containers, as potted trees dry out faster.
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Winter Watering: Reduce watering significantly when the tree goes dormant.
💡 Pro Tip: Water deeply and less often rather than frequent shallow watering to encourage deep root growth.
4. Fertilizing for Optimal Growth
Fertilizing helps the Violette de Bordeaux fig tree grow strong and produce more fruit, but over-fertilizing can lead to excess leaves and fewer figs.
When and How to Fertilize
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Apply a balanced organic fertilizer (such as 10-10-10 or compost) in early spring when new growth begins.
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If the tree is grown in a container, fertilize once a month during the growing season (spring to early fall).
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Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to encourage fruiting rather than excessive foliage growth.
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Stop fertilizing in late summer to allow the tree to prepare for dormancy.
5. Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning helps keep your Violette de Bordeaux fig tree healthy and productive.
When to Prune
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Late winter to early spring (before new growth begins) is the best time to prune.
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For container-grown trees, pruning is essential to maintain size and shape.
How to Prune
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Remove dead, weak, or diseased branches to promote new growth.
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Thin out overcrowded branches to improve air circulation.
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Shape the tree by keeping the center open, which allows sunlight to reach inner branches.
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For potted trees, root pruning every 2–3 years helps maintain healthy growth and prevents the tree from becoming root-bound.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to prune! Fig trees respond well to pruning, and a well-pruned tree produces larger and better-quality figs.
6. Winter Care and Protection
If you live in USDA Zone 7 or colder, you’ll need to take extra steps to protect your Violette de Bordeaux fig tree in winter.
For In-Ground Trees (Cold Climates Below Zone 7)
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Mulch Heavily: Apply a thick layer of straw, leaves, or bark mulch around the base to insulate the roots.
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Wrap the Tree: Use burlap or frost blankets to wrap young trees.
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Bend and Cover (Extreme Cold): In very cold areas, some gardeners bend young trees to the ground and cover them with mulch and tarp for insulation.
For Container-Grown Trees
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Move the tree to a garage, basement, or unheated greenhouse for the winter.
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Water sparingly (only when the soil is completely dry).
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The tree will go dormant, losing its leaves—this is normal.
💡 Pro Tip: If storing indoors, keep the tree in a cool, dark place (above freezing but below 50°F) to maintain dormancy.
Harvesting and Enjoying Violette de Bordeaux Figs
1. When to Harvest
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The figs are ready when they turn deep purple/black and feel soft to the touch.
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They should easily detach from the branch with a gentle pull.
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Expect two harvests per year—a smaller breba crop in early summer and a main crop in late summer to fall.
2. How to Store Fresh Figs
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Fresh figs do not last long after picking. They should be eaten within a few days.
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Store them in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life.
3. Delicious Ways to Enjoy Violette de Bordeaux Figs
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Fresh off the tree – Their natural sweetness makes them a perfect snack.
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In salads – Pair with arugula, goat cheese, and walnuts for a gourmet touch.
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In baked goods – Use them in tarts, cakes, and bread.
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In jams and preserves – The rich flavor makes for an amazing homemade fig jam.
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With cheese and charcuterie – Figs pair beautifully with aged cheeses and cured meats.
Common Problems and Solutions
1. Dropping Fruit Before Ripening
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Cause: Inconsistent watering or poor soil drainage.
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Solution: Keep soil evenly moist and use mulch to retain moisture.
2. Pests (Fig Beetles, Birds, Squirrels)
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Use netting or row covers to protect fruit.
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Pick ripe figs quickly to prevent pest attraction.
3. Cold Damage in Winter
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If frost damages the tree, prune back dead branches in spring, and the tree will often recover.
Why Violette de Bordeaux is a Must-Have Fig Tree
The Violette de Bordeaux fig tree is a fantastic choice for home gardeners looking for a low-maintenance, high-reward fruit tree. Its incredible flavor, compact size, and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions make it perfect for both beginner and experienced gardeners.
By following proper care, planting, and harvesting techniques, you can enjoy the sweet, rich taste of homegrown figs right from your own backyard. Whether you plant it in the ground or keep it in a pot on your patio, the Violette de Bordeaux will reward you with years of delicious fruit and beautiful foliage.
So why not start growing your own Violette de Bordeaux fig tree today? It’s a small tree with big rewards!