Type: Common Fig (Does Not Require Pollination)
Colonel Littman’s Black Cross, often abbreviated CLBC, is a rare and highly respected American fig variety known for its outstanding berry flavor, beautiful dark fruit, and reliable performance in humid climates. Originally cultivated in Florida, this exceptional heirloom has earned a devoted following among collectors who appreciate premium dark figs with complex flavor profiles.
The variety traces its history to Colonel Littman, who obtained the fig from a grower named Mr. Cross in Tallahassee, Florida. After being propagated in Gainesville, the variety gradually spread among collectors and developed a reputation as one of the finest Florida-grown figs available.
The fruit is medium-sized and develops a striking dark purple to nearly black exterior as it ripens. Its attractive appearance is complemented by a tight, closed eye that helps reduce splitting and maintain excellent fruit quality even under humid growing conditions.
Inside, the fruit reveals a rich red interior with a dense, syrupy texture. The flesh becomes exceptionally sweet when fully ripe while maintaining enough acidity to create a balanced and memorable eating experience.
CLBC is especially prized for its flavor. Rich berry notes dominate the profile, accompanied by deep sweetness and subtle tangy undertones. The combination creates a complex dessert-quality fig that many collectors compare favorably to some of the finest berry-flavored varieties in cultivation.
The tree is vigorous, attractive, and highly adaptable. Large five-lobed leaves give it ornamental value while also supporting heavy fruit production. Mature trees typically reach 8 to 15 feet tall when planted in the ground but can easily be maintained at a smaller size through pruning or container culture.
One of the variety’s strengths is its ability to perform well in warm, humid climates while maintaining good fruit quality. Its tight eye and natural resistance to splitting make it particularly valuable in regions where summer humidity challenges many other premium figs.
The main crop typically ripens during the mid- to late season, often beginning in August in warmer climates and continuing into early fall depending on local conditions.
As a common fig, Colonel Littman’s Black Cross does not require pollination and reliably produces fruit in areas where the fig wasp is not present.
Its combination of Florida heritage, exceptional berry flavor, dark fruit, and collector appeal has helped establish CLBC as one of the most sought-after American fig varieties available today.
For growers seeking a premium dark fig with rich berry flavor and proven performance, Colonel Littman’s Black Cross is an outstanding addition to any collection.
USDA Zones 7-10
Don’t let the growing zones discourage you. Fig trees can be successfully grown in containers and many growers enjoy fresh figs well outside the recommended zones. Growing in a pot allows you to move the tree to a protected location during winter and control its size. With proper care and winter protection, many fig varieties can be grown and fruited outside their listed growing zones.
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