Question
We have a large ficus tree (about 20' - 25' tall) that I recently noticed was producing a yellowish fruit about the size of a quarter in diameter.  I learned that these are actually a type of fig but I haven't found any information about wether or not they are edible.  I love figs but I'm not about to eat one of these until I know it's not poisonous in any way.

Thanks for your help

Answer
John,

Your ficus is in the Microcarpa family, probably a benjamina unless it has a lot of aerial roots then it may be a retusa. The fruit is not poisonous but I would start by only cutting one open and licking it. It could be sweet but most likely it is very astringent or bitter.

If you want you identify the tree better you can send me a couple of pictures of the entire tree and one of the leaves close up to [email protected]  Do it today or tomorrow. I just happen to have a worlds expert on Ficus trees visiting me this weekend and I am sure he could ID it for you. His name is Jerry Meislik, he has a website and wrote a book on ficus bonsai called FICUS. I'll watch for your email. Good luck.

Darlene