Fig Database®: Irene's Black Greek

Irene's Black Greek Information

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Possible Synonyms / AKA:

Irenes Black Fig
Introduced By:
Dennis Johnson
Origin:
U.S.A.
Main Flavor Group:
Exotic - Deep, rich flavor often found in varieties like Black Madeira and Preto, delivering an intense, complex taste that feels luxurious and distinctive.
Family Group:
Smith
Fig Type:
Common - Self fertile and will grow anywhere conditions are suitable
Cold Hardy:
N/A
Container Variety:
Yes
Easy Rooting:
N/A
Main Season:
any
Availability:
Average
Breba Crop:
Yes
Seed Crunch:
N/A
Eye:
closed
Skin Toughness:
moderate
Fruit Size:
Medium
Rain Resistance:
Excellent
Tree Vigor:
Medium
External Links:
https://www.ourfigs.com/forum/figs-home/1555159-irene-s-black-greek-keeper
https://www.ourfigs.com/forum/figs-home/1315497-most-elusive

Description

Irene's Black Greek is a highly regarded fig variety known for its rich flavor and excellent growing characteristics. This medium-sized fig typically weighs between 30 to 65 grams and develops a strikingly dark skin when fully ripe. Its pulp is dense, packed with sweetness, and offers a complex, well-balanced flavor that fig enthusiasts appreciate. Some growers have noted similarities between this variety and the Smith fig, particularly in leaf patterns, but the differences in fruit appearance and taste suggest they are distinct cultivars.

The tree itself is a productive grower, though it may exhibit slower development compared to other vigorous varieties. Once established, it produces an abundant harvest of delicious fruit. Irene's Black Greek adapts well to different climates, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of growing conditions. With a strong resistance to splitting and a reliable fruit set, this variety has gained popularity among collectors and home gardeners alike.

The Irene's Black Greek fig variety was introduced by Dennis Johnson , a long-time fig enthusiast from North Carolina. He received this fig from a woman named Irene at the Charlotte Regional Farmer's Market, who shared cuttings of this unique variety. Dennis subsequently propagated and shared it within the fig-growing community. The exact date of its introduction isn't specified in the available sources. However, a video titled "Irene's Black Greek Fig - August 11, 2020" provides an in-depth look at this variety, suggesting that it has been in cultivation among enthusiasts since at least 2020.

leon_edmond:

My first IBG Breba was yesterday. All I can say is wow! Great berry taste that lingers on the palate.
I”m very impressed by this fig. Very productive, closed eye, no splitting. It is definitely near a taste profile similar to Black Madiera/Ital-258.

Dan Foster:

Irene’s Black Greek. One of my favorites from my good friend Dennis Johnson several years ago. It’s in a class of its own.

Dan Louie:

My long awaited Irene’s Black Greek (IBG from Dan Foster) didn’t disappoint! Beautiful figs at 53g and 65g. All I can say is wow as they’re delicious with very complex berry tones jumping out when I bite into it. The syrup just lingers in your mouth for a bit. When they’re dead ripe they have a smooth refined taste, juicy, jammy, and a pure joy to eat! I can only compare the experience with tasting a very good Cabernet wine as it’s just so smooth and satisfying. Every time I try a new fig variety, I change my mind which one is best. I would say IBG edged out Ondata slightly and it tops my list. No wonder we collect so many figs

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YouTube Videos

Fig trees June 23 2023. Irene’s Black Greek and Del Cor

Turning one Irene’s Black Greek fig into two - RARE FIG!

Irene's Black Greek; an in depth look and tasting!

Irene's Black Greek Fig - August 11, 2020

Irene's Black Greek fig - To Die For Good!

Irene’s Black Greek fig tasting.

Irene's Black Greek Fig - August 11, 2020

Member Descriptions Add Your Description

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Smith

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Irene's Black Greek

Irene's Black Greek Information

Possible Synonyms / AKA:

Introduced By:

Origin:

Main Flavor Group:

Family Group:

Fig Type:

Cold Hardy:

Container Variety:

Easy Rooting:

Main Season:

Availability:

Breba Crop:

Seed Crunch:

Eye:

Skin Toughness:

Fruit Size:

Rain Resistance:

Tree Vigor:

External Links:

Description

Photos Add Your Image

YouTube Videos

Fig trees June 23 2023. Irene’s Black Greek and Del Cor

Turning one Irene’s Black Greek fig into two - RARE FIG!

Irene's Black Greek; an in depth look and tasting!

Irene's Black Greek Fig - August 11, 2020

Irene's Black Greek fig - To Die For Good!

Irene’s Black Greek fig tasting.

Irene's Black Greek Fig - August 11, 2020

Member Descriptions Add Your Description

Similar Varieties

Smith

Join Us At The Fig Spot!

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