How to Grow Violette de Bordeaux Figs

In the world of homegrown luxury fruits, Violette de Bordeaux Figs stand tall. Known for their rich flavor, compact growth, and stunning deep-purple skin, these figs are a favorite among backyard growers and commercial orchard owners alike.

If you're a gardener looking to elevate your harvest—or a seller eyeing a high-margin crop this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about growing Violette de Bordeaux Figs successfully.

What Are Violette de Bordeaux Figs?

A Gourmet Favorite with a Historic Name

The Violette de Bordeaux Fig, sometimes referred to as the “petite fig,” is a French heirloom variety celebrated for its intensely sweet, jammy flavor and dark violet skin. Inside, the flesh is a vibrant ruby-red—soft, juicy, and bursting with taste.

This fig variety has a rich history in Europe, where it was prized by nobility and featured in artisan kitchens. Today, it’s a gourmet favorite across farmers markets, boutique food brands, and upscale grocers.

Compact Tree with Big Flavor

Another reason growers love this variety? Its small size. Violette de Bordeaux fig trees typically grow no taller than 6 to 10 feet, making them ideal for urban gardens, patios, and even large containers.

Whether you’re planting one for personal use or hundreds for commercial purposes, this tree is low-maintenance and high-reward.

Ideal Climate and Growing Zones

USDA Zones for Best Results

Violette de Bordeaux figs thrive in USDA zones 7 through 10. That said, with proper care and some winter protection, they can also be successfully grown in colder zones (down to Zone 6) if kept in pots or given frost protection.

Climate Preferences

This fig prefers a warm, sunny climate with moderate humidity. It does not do well in overly wet or tropical conditions. The fruit ripens beautifully in Mediterranean-style climates like Southern California, Arizona, and parts of Texas.

If you’re in a cooler or variable climate, container growing is your best bet for consistent success.

Soil, Sun, and Water Requirements

Soil Quality Matters

To get the most from your Violette de Bordeaux figs, plant them in well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0). Sandy loam amended with compost works well.

Avoid heavy clay soils unless you improve drainage by elevating the planting site or using raised beds.

Full Sun for Full Flavor

These fig trees need at least 6–8 hours of full sun per day to develop sweet, rich fruit. The more sun exposure, the better the yield and flavor profile.

Plant in a location shielded from strong winds but with ample light exposure throughout the day.

Water Deep, But Not Often

Water deeply every 7–10 days once established, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot—a common fig grower mistake.

If your tree is potted, make sure the container has excellent drainage holes and never lets the roots sit in water.

Planting Violette de Bordeaux Fig Trees

Choosing the Right Spot

Select a sunny area with good air circulation. If planting multiple trees, space them at least 8–10 feet apart to allow full canopy growth and airflow, which reduces disease risk.

If you're limited on space or soil quality, these figs also do very well in large pots (20 gallons or more).

Starting from Cuttings vs. Nursery Trees

You can grow Violette de Bordeaux figs from:

• Dormant cuttings (takes longer, more skill needed)

• Rooted starts

• Potted nursery trees (fastest and easiest)

For beginners or commercial growers, purchasing a well-rooted tree from a reputable nursery is the most reliable route.

Planting Depth and Setup

Plant trees at the same depth as they were in their nursery pots. Firm the soil around the roots and water thoroughly. Add mulch (but not touching the trunk) to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Caring for the Fig Tree Throughout the Seasons

Spring and Summer: Growth Season

In spring, prune away dead or weak branches to promote airflow. Fertilize lightly with organic compost or a balanced slow-release fertilizer to support fruiting.

During summer, keep up with watering, especially if the weather is hot and dry. Be vigilant about pests like aphids or ants.

Fall: Harvest and Prepare for Dormancy

As the fruit ripens in late summer to early fall, pick figs when they begin to droop and feel soft to the touch. Do not wait too long or they may split or attract pests.

Once harvest is done, begin reducing watering frequency and remove any fallen fruit or leaves.

Winter: Protection in Cooler Zones

In Zones 6 or lower, protect your tree with:

• Mulch mounds at the base

• Burlap wrap or frost cloth

• Moving potted trees indoors or into a sheltered garage

Let the tree go dormant naturally; do not try to keep it in active growth during cold months.

Common Pests, Diseases, and Prevention

Typical Problems to Watch For

• Fig Rust: Appears as yellow-orange spots on leaves. Prune affected leaves and increase airflow.

• Root Rot: Caused by poor drainage. Prevent with proper watering and soil.

• Aphids & Scale Insects: Spray with neem oil or use insecticidal soap.

Commercial-Grade Prevention

For growers looking to scale operations, regular spraying schedules, pruning routines, and even netting for birds may be necessary.

A clean orchard with good sanitation practices will experience fewer outbreaks and greater yields.

When and How to Harvest Violette de Bordeaux Figs

Signs of Ripeness

A ripe Violette de Bordeaux fig will:

• Appear slightly wrinkled or drooping

• Feel soft but not mushy

• Show a slight crack or oozing at the stem

Taste improves dramatically when left to ripen fully on the tree. Pick gently by hand, as figs bruise easily.

Production Cycles

This variety often produces two crops per year:

• Breba crop (early summer) on old wood

• Main crop (late summer/fall) on new wood

The main crop tends to be larger and more flavorful, especially in warmer climates.

Storage and Commercial Handling

Figs do not store well fresh—only 3 to 5 days in refrigeration—so quick processing is key for sellers. Consider:

• Flash freezing

• Turning into jam or preserves

• Selling dried or as part of gift boxes

Always pack figs in ventilated clamshells or cushioned trays to avoid bruising during transit.

Growing Violette de Bordeaux Figs Commercially

Profit Potential and Yield

A mature tree can yield 20–50 pounds of fruit annually under ideal conditions. With premium pricing ($6–$12 per pound fresh), this fig offers excellent ROI per square foot of growing space.

Even small-scale growers can profit by selling direct-to-consumer, especially in local markets or online.

Wholesale vs. D2C (Direct-to-Consumer)

• Wholesale: Sell to organic grocery chains, gourmet stores, and restaurants

• D2C: Use Shopify, Etsy, or farmer’s markets to sell direct with storytelling, packaging, and higher markup

Many fig entrepreneurs combine both strategies for income diversity.

Packaging and Branding Tips

Position your figs as organic, artisan, and heritage-grown. Include:

• Farm name and story

• Storage/use instructions

• Recipe card or QR code to fig-based recipes

Packaging should be eco-friendly but protective—think kraft boxes, cardboard trays, or compostable clamshells.

Conclusion

Violette de Bordeaux Figs are more than just a tasty fruit—they're a lucrative, manageable, and deeply satisfying crop for hobbyists and commercial growers alike.

By understanding their climate needs, soil preferences, and harvest routines, you can enjoy an abundant yield of sweet, rich figs year after year. Whether you’re growing one tree on your patio or planning a boutique orchard business, this fig will reward your efforts with beauty, flavor, and profit.