Soon to be released, a first-of-its-kind, nation-wide database of heirloom fig trees!

From the first fig trees brought to the missions of California to the small branches hidden in trunks during ship passages, fig trees have made their way from around the globe to find a new home in the US. Transplanted to a new world, the fig adapted and thrived in a land not its own, much like our uprooted ancestors. These symbolic heirloom trees deserve to take their place in history, and now they have the chance.

The Legacy Fig Tree Archive will be an interactive mapping database demonstrating the prevalence of the fig growing tradition throughout the US. It will identify former trees (trees living in memory only) and heirloom* trees currently growing. The tree’s approximate location will be shown on an interactive map of the US with a clickable marker that will link to information about your tree that you provide.

Information can include:

The tree's location (no house number) and how long the tree has been or was at this address.
Any previous known addresses (no house numbers) where the tree was grown, and who was growing it and approximate years that it grew there.
Origin of the tree, if known.
Description of the tree - size, growth shape, (single trunk or multi-stemmed).
How the tree is or was cared for through the winter.
How was it cared for by previous generations.
What do or did the figs look like, outside and inside.
Any memories you have regarding the tree, why it is important to you and to previous owners, and who you most associate with the tree.
Photos (if applicable)
- A photo of who you most associate with the tree.
- A photo of the whole tree in full foliage and one of a whole leaf (close-up).
- A photo of the tree in the winter or fall without leaves.
- A photo of it protected for the winter (wrapped or buried) if applicable.

Other information you can provide about the fig tree.

In addition to your listing in the database, you will receive a certificate of participation, honoring your contribution to this historical archive.

Reserve your listing now by emailing the above information to us at info@theitaliangardenproject.com

The Legacy Fig Tree Archive will be funded by donations only.

Please consider a $50 donation per listing.

*We are defining heirloom fig trees as those whose history is not associated with large scale commercial agriculture. A tree grown from a cutting or rooted start from an heirloom tree, regardless of when it was planted, is still considered to be an heirloom.