In the late 1800s, a Mediterranean tree began to take root in the United States when Italian immigrants began arriving in the country. Their suitcases were filled with things that reminded them of their homeland. Along with seeds for traditional vegetables, they always carried one twig that would hopefully grow into a fig tree.

It is said that you can still identify historically Italian neighborhoods by the presence of backyard fig trees. Because they are not native to cold climates, gardeners took great pains to ensure their survival.