Fig Varieties
The Top 10 Fig Varieties Ranked by Flavor – Which One Reigns Supreme?
Figs are kind of like wine—each variety has its own personality, complexity, and dedicated fans. Some are syrupy and rich, others light and honeyed, and a few pack a surprising punch of berry and spice. If you’ve ever wondered which fig varieties truly stand out when it comes to flavor, you’re in the right place.
Let’s break it down, counting from 10 to 1, with the legendary Black Madeira holding the top spot.
10. Kadota – The Mellow Sweetheart
Kadota figs don’t scream for attention, but they quietly impress. Their pale green skin hides a golden, honey-like interior. The sweetness is subtle—think white sugar rather than deep caramel. They’re fantastic for fresh eating, but really shine when roasted or drizzled with balsamic.
Best For: Those who love a mild, honeyed fig that isn’t overpowering.
9. Chicago Hardy – The Reliable Workhorse
Some fig snobs dismiss Chicago Hardy, but hear me out—it has its place. This fig is mild and lightly sweet with a slight nuttiness. It doesn’t deliver the intense richness of a Black Madeira, but it’s refreshing and easy to love. Plus, it’s one of the easiest figs to grow, which means you’ll get plenty of fruit.
Best For: Casual fig eaters and first-time growers.
8. LSU Purple – The Southern Star
Developed in Louisiana, LSU Purple has a rich, jammy sweetness that leans toward berry and sugarcane notes. The thin skin and soft flesh make it a treat when perfectly ripe. Some growers say it lacks complexity, but what it does offer is pure, unfiltered sweetness.
Best For: Anyone who wants an easy, super-sweet fig with a tropical twist.
7. Panaché (Tiger Fig) – A Showstopper with Zing
Let’s be real—Panaché is a rockstar just based on looks. Those yellow and green stripes make it one of the most visually striking figs. But the flavor? A vibrant mix of honey and berries with a slight citrus edge. It’s not as syrupy as some other figs, but that brightness makes it a favorite for fresh eating.
Best For: Fig lovers who want a sweet fig with a touch of tang.
6. Violette de Bordeaux – The Mini Powerhouse
Don’t let the small size fool you—Violette de Bordeaux is packed with deep, complex flavor. It’s like eating a mix of dark berries and molasses, with a touch of spice. This fig also smells incredible—some say it has notes of vanilla. The skin is thin but has a slight chew, adding to the experience.
Best For: Those who love deep, berry-forward figs in a compact package.
5. Smith – The Underrated Gem
Smith figs are often overlooked, but once you taste one, you won’t forget it. The balance of honeyed sweetness and tangy berry flavor is nearly perfect. Plus, the skin has a slight crunch, which adds an unexpected texture contrast. It’s like the best parts of a Kadota and Violette de Bordeaux combined.
Best For: People who want a rich, fruity fig with a little zing.
4. Yellow Long Neck – The Delicate Delight
The Yellow Long Neck fig is pure sunshine. The flavor is bright, honey-sweet, and lightly floral—almost like a mix between fig and melon. It’s not the most intense fig, but it’s smooth, refreshing, and easy to love.
Best For: Those who prefer a lighter, golden-sweet fig without heavy syrup.
3. Black Mission – The Classic Favorite
If you’ve ever had dried figs from the store, chances are they were Black Mission. But fresh off the tree? Completely different experience. These figs are intensely sweet, with flavors of caramel, jammy berries, and a slight wine-like depth. The flesh is thick and syrupy—pure indulgence.
Best For: Anyone who loves a rich, syrupy fig that tastes like dessert.
2. Col de Dame Blanc – The Deepest Flavor You’ll Find
This fig is wildly complex. The flavor is dark and intense, with deep berry, fig jam, and even hints of coffee and chocolate. Some call it “the connoisseur’s fig” because it’s not just sweet—it’s layered, bold, and lingers on the palate.
Best For: Those who want a fig that’s more like a fine wine—deep, rich, and sophisticated.
1. Black Madeira – The King of Figs
This is it—the ultimate fig. Black Madeira has everything you could want: deep berry flavor, dark molasses sweetness, and an almost spicy complexity. The texture is thick and syrupy, with just the right amount of chew in the skin. Every bite is an experience.
It’s not the easiest fig to grow (it needs warmth and patience), but once you taste a perfectly ripened Black Madeira, no other fig quite compares.
Best For: Those who want the richest, most indulgent fig experience.
Final Thoughts – Which Fig Is Right for You?
Every fig on this list has its own charm. If you love rich, jammy figs, go for Black Mission, Col de Dame Blanc, or Black Madeira. If you want something fresh and bright, Panaché or Yellow Long Neck might be your match.
No matter your choice, one thing’s for sure—once you start exploring figs, it’s hard to stop.
