Figs Description Origin About figs Fig trees are of the genus Ficus, in the mulberry family. The rubber plant, a popular house plant, the Bo tree, and the Banyan tree are also species of Ficus. figs Description Origin The fig was used by the ancient Egyptians as long as 6,000 years ago. They were a favorite of Cleopatra. They also grew in the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. A handful of...