De La Senyora Fig is a Spanish heirloom that captures something rare: a fig that ripens late into winter, when most figs have long finished producing. This medium-sized variety displays a striking green exterior that develops visible cracking patterns as it matures, revealing a deep red flesh within. The fruit takes on an elegant, elongated pear-like shape that's unmistakable on the tree. Sourced from Montserrat Pons's renowned collection in Spain, this self-fertile common fig adapts readily to containers and thrives in full sun, making it accessible even for gardeners without sprawling orchards.
Full Sun
—
?-?
?in H x ?in W
—
High
Hover over chart points for details
Late-season ripening extending into early October and well through winter sets this variety apart from conventional figs that finish by mid-fall. The green skin with distinctive cracking patterns becomes a visual marker of ripening, while the pear-shaped fruit and red interior flesh deliver both beauty and substance. Its ability to grow vigorously with dense foliage while remaining container-friendly makes it a standout choice for patient growers willing to wait for an extended harvest window.
As an edible fig, De La Senyora is enjoyed fresh off the tree, where its red interior flesh and medium size make it a satisfying single-bite fruit. The extended ripening period allows for selective harvesting throughout late fall and winter when fresh fruit is scarce, extending the season of enjoyment well beyond typical fig varieties. The fruit's pear-like form and distinctive appearance also make it attractive for ornamental display alongside its culinary purpose.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Transplant rooted fig trees outdoors after the last hard frost in spring, once soil has warmed and the risk of freeze damage has passed. Space at least 8 to 12 feet apart for in-ground planting, though container-grown specimens can be positioned to suit your available space. For container growing, select a pot at least 15 to 18 inches in diameter to accommodate the tree's developing root system and moderate growth rate.
De La Senyora figs begin ripening in early October and continue through winter months, so harvest patience is rewarded with an extended picking season. Watch for the green skin to develop visible cracking patterns and slight color changes as a visual cue of ripening; the fruit will soften slightly when ready and may show small droplets of juice at the base. Gently twist or cut ripe figs from the branch using clean pruners, being mindful that the tree frequently retains numerous unripe figs well into winter as part of its late-maturation characteristic. A considerable portion of the season's fruit may not reach full maturity before hard freezes arrive, so harvest what ripens and accept that this variety sacrifices early abundance for late-season production.
Prune De La Senyora lightly in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges, focusing on removing any winter-damaged or crossing branches and shaping the canopy for optimal sun exposure. Since this variety produces no breba crop (early-season figs) and fruits develop on new growth, avoid heavy pruning that might delay the already-late ripening cycle. For container-grown trees, pruning helps maintain a manageable size and encourages bushier growth with more fruiting branches.
Enter your ZIP code to see a personalized growing calendar for this plant.
“De La Senyora originated in Spain and exists in multiple recognized forms, including the Hivernenca and Sineuera strains. The variety takes its name from its Spanish heritage, with 'senyora' reflecting its regional significance. This particular strain was preserved and introduced through Montserrat Pons's collection, part of Montserrat Pons i Boscana's work to maintain historic fig varieties. The fig is also known regionally by several names including Verdal d'Oriola, Ampurdan, and Hivernenca, reflecting its cultivation across different Spanish growing regions where it earned respect for its late-season production. Pons's dedication to collecting and sharing these varieties has made De La Senyora accessible to contemporary gardeners who might otherwise never encounter this winter-ripening treasure.”