"Chicago Hardy" is considered to be one of the hardiest edible figs. Its stems are hardy to 10F and the roots are hardy to -20F. It can be grown in Zone 6 and warmer, and in Zone 5 if situated in a warmer microclimate and given protection with a heavy mulch when dormant. Stems that die back will resprout in spring and will produce fruit on the new wood. It may also be grown in a pot and brought indoors or kept in a cool garage. It has large, leathery leaves that have a cordate base and 3 to 5 lobes. The medium-sized fruit has light brown to deep purple skin with sweet, pink flesh and ripens in late summer and early fall. It will grow 10 to 15 ft. tall and 9 to 12 ft. wide although it may only grow 3 to 4 ft. tall in cold climates if it dies back. This fig is also known as 'Bensonhurst Purple.'