Marseilles Black VS is a French fig that marries early-season reliability with striking visual contrast: a black skin that opens to reveal a deep red interior studded with the sweet, berry-forward flesh typical of the finest figs. Hardy enough for zone 7 gardens (and notably cold-tolerant down to zone 5 in protected settings), this self-fertile variety produces medium-sized fruit with a skin that's pleasantly chewy rather than tough, ripening early in the season when you're hungry for fresh figs. The flavor profile runs from mildly to very sweet with distinct berry notes and a whisper of acidity, creating the kind of balanced complexity that makes you reach for another.
Full Sun
—
7-10
?in H x ?in W
—
High
Hover over chart points for details
The black-skinned fruit opens to reveal a deep crimson interior, a stunning visual that hints at the berry-forward flavor within. Early ripening and exceptional cold hardiness make this variety one of the most dependable figs for northern gardeners, while the edible skin avoids the toughness that plagues some alternatives. Its proven yield production and ability to thrive in zone 7 through zone 10, even down to zone 5 with protection, means you can count on consistent harvests year after year.
Fresh eating is where Marseilles Black VS truly shines; the berry notes and balanced sweetness with subtle acidity make these figs compelling straight off the tree. The edible skin and medium size suit them to eating whole, while the deep color and firm flesh also stand up well to preserving as jam or paste, a classic preparation in French cuisine.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
From mildly to very sweet, with distinct berry notes complemented by a touch of acidity. They often feature subtle complexity, with additional layers of flavor that enhance their rich and balanced profile.
For bare-root or containerized fig trees, transplant in early spring before active growth begins, or in fall in mild climates. Space plants 10 to 15 feet apart if growing multiple specimens, as mature figs need room for air circulation. Plant at the same depth it was growing in its container; figs prefer a slightly raised planting position to ensure drainage. Water thoroughly after transplanting and maintain consistent moisture for the first growing season.
Marseilles Black VS figs ripen early in the season; watch for the skin to deepen to full black and the fruit to feel slightly soft when gently squeezed. Ripe figs will often produce a tiny drop of nectar at the base, another reliable signal of readiness. Harvest by gently twisting the stem or snipping with pruners; ripe figs detach easily from the tree. Pick daily during peak ripening for the sweetest fruit and to encourage continued production.
Prune lightly in early spring to remove any winter-damaged wood and to shape the tree for an open, vase-like canopy that allows sun to reach developing fruit. Figs fruit on new growth, so avoid heavy pruning that removes productive wood; a light hand with the pruners encourages a naturally productive form. Thin crowded interior branches to improve air circulation and light penetration.
Enter your ZIP code to see a personalized growing calendar for this plant.
“Marseilles Black VS comes from France, a country with centuries of fig cultivation tradition. The 'VS' designation and alternate names like Black Marseilles point to a variety refined over generations in French gardens, selected for the traits modern growers prize: cold hardiness, early ripening, and reliable production. This is a common fig type, self-fertile and needing no pollinator, which means it arrived in gardening culture as a practical, straightforward choice for anyone willing to give it sun and warmth.”