Bursa Black Fig — produced from the “Dürdane” variety — is a premium table fig grown mainly in the Bursa region of Turkey. It has a dark purple skin, red flesh, and is typically medium to large in size. Like other fig varieties, Bursa Black is not self-pollinating; successful fruit development requires the transfer of pollen from male (caprifig) flowers to the female fig. Compared to other black figs grown in different regions, Bursa Black figs are larger, darker in color, and more visually appealing. They are highly valued for their long shelf life, attractive appearance, large size, sweet, juicy flesh, and overall superior eating quality. Recognized as the finest table fig in the world, Bursa Black has become a symbol and brand of the Bursa region. Turkey produces about 20,000 tons of Bursa Black figs annually, meeting 90% of the country’s black fig production. Approximately 80% of this yield is exported fresh, making it an important product in the international fruit market.
Adana Black Fig is the earliest-ripening black fig variety grown in Turkey, cultivated primarily in the Adana region. Due to the area’s high temperatures and humidity levels exceeding 70%, the ripening period is much shorter compared to other regions. Because of these climatic conditions, the shelf life is relatively short, and early morning harvesting is recommended to ensure optimal fruit quality. The main distinction of Adana Black figs is their earliness, making them the first and most valuable black figs to reach the market each season. Although production is mainly aimed at the domestic market, a small portion is exported by air, taking advantage of its premium early-season value.
Aydın Black Fig — While Aydın is Turkey’s leading region for dried fig production, in recent years it has also become known for early-season black fig cultivation. Positioned between the Adana and Bursa harvest seasons, Aydın meets the mid-season market demand for fresh black figs, and production is steadily increasing. About half of the harvested fruit is sold domestically, while the other half is exported. Compared to Bursa Black figs, Aydın Black figs are smaller in size and have a shorter shelf life, but they play an important role in bridging the market gap between early Adana and late-season Bursa black figs.
