Susser Georg

Süßer Georg (also spelled Susser Georg, meaning "Sweet George") is a traditional Austrian fig that traces its documented history to the Vienna area. According to the family history of the nursery that preserved it, the cultivar was brought to Austria by the owner's grandfather during the 1930s and was later named "Süßer Georg" in his honor. It is considered an English Brown Turkey (EBT)-type fig, producing both an abundant breba crop and a main crop. The breba figs are often large and elongated, while the main crop is more rounded and medium-sized. The tree is noted for its upright, tree-like growth habit, excellent cold hardiness, and strong fruit retention, with figs capable of hanging on the tree for an extended period to develop maximum sweetness. In shorter-season climates, the main crop can ripen quite late, but in regions with long, warm summers it rewards growers with outstanding fruit quality.

When fully tree-ripened, Süßer Georg offers a refreshing flavor profile that differs from the rich berry notes of many dark figs. Its dominant character is sweet melon and ripe cantaloupe, layered with delicate notes of agave nectar, honey, and fresh fig, while some growers also detect subtle hints of white peach as the fruit reaches peak maturity. The flesh is firm, dense, and meaty rather than syrupy, with moderate sweetness and a clean, balanced finish. Thanks to its long hang time, the fruit can become even more concentrated and occasionally begin to dry naturally on the tree, further enhancing its sweetness. For growers who appreciate the classic melon-forward character of the finest English Brown Turkey-type figs, Süßer Georg is regarded as one of the most distinctive and flavorful examples of the group.