There鈥檚 more to the fig than its snackability. Hussain Al-Asaad, associate professor in the 芭乐视频 Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, teaches a first-year seminar emphasizing the fig鈥檚 versatility. As a fruit-growing hobbyist, he finds figs some of the easiest and most nutritious fruits to grow. 鈥淔igs are an excellent source of fiber; they鈥檙e said to help reduce or cure many diseases, so I would consider them one of the superfruits,鈥 said Al-Asaad. Here, he shares some little-known fig facts.
On growing figs:
California is the best place to grow figs, according to Al-Asaad, who is currently growing and testing more than 300 varieties in containers in his home backyard. And certain varieties 鈥 the San Pedro and Smyrna 鈥 require pollination by a wasp found only in one state: California. Plus, Al-Asaad said, the pollinated figs are the best tasting.
On myth busting:
Have you heard the one about dead wasps in figs? Al-Asaad dispells that myth. 鈥淭he wasps go inside the fig and die there,鈥 he said. 鈥淭hey actually disintegrate inside the fruit.鈥
On figs鈥 availability:
While more than 1,000 varieties of figs exist, only three are sold in stores: Black Mission, Brown Turkey, and Panache Tiger. 鈥淔igs in the market are often picked early to extend their shelf life, because they cannot stay good for long,鈥 said Al-Asaad, adding that the fig must be fully ripened on the tree before it is picked to get the best taste. Growing your own figs allows you to experience more varieties and flavors.