Need advice on fig tree (zone 8a)

We want to put in a fig tree and wonder if anyone has advice as to what might be best for our zone 8a, Columbia SC, and best for taste. I understand that some fig trees spread way out. We probably have space for one. What size should we buy and what should we expect for its growth over the next 2 or 3 years? When will it begin producing edible fruit?
Thanks,
Don

I'm not in Carolina but I can tell you about my fig. First, I bought a 1 gal. plant at a fruit tree sale hosted by our local extension. The sale only had varieties that did well in my area, in this case Celeste. Small purple fruit, delicious. So, I would ck w/ your local ext. office.

I was absolutely stunned by how fast my fig grew. I had seen them in other yards and knew it was going to need space. Make sure you designate a large area for it. In the first year, mine grew from a 1 ft tall plant to about 6-7 ft, with an equal sized canopy. I didn't have much of a die back the first winter, but the 2nd winter it lots all its leaves. I haven't researched whether there are dwarf varieties but you might want to ck about that as well w/ your ext. office. I'm ashamed to admit that I have not fertilized my fig, however I did use excellent soil when I planted. Mine is in full, brutal TX sun and gets average water.

People always complain about birds eating the fruit. So far it hasn't been a problem. but I know that sooner or later they will discover my tree so I'm enjoying my fruit while I can, lol.