It has been observed (Dan/Cajun Figs) that "Black Mission" is usually not as hardy as other varieties because it almost always shows symptoms, and is weakened by, FMV/D. Infected trees are more susceptible to winter damages, die-back and/or death. Therefore the variety is reputed to be "not too cold-hardy". That makes sense to me, but who knows? How can "hardiness" be measured, especially under our varied growing conditions and climates?
It is precisely for the FMV problems associated with this particular variety that I am trialing tissue-cultured, virus-free, "Black Misson" just to see if it will do well in NYC/Z-7b. I am also growing it because the figs are delicious. So far, the t-c trees I ordered from Wellspring Gdns. remain "clean", are vigorously growing, and show no visible symptoms of FMV/D. None of the carefully selected trees in my small collection, show any signs of FMV. No boast, but I just can't spend time and valuable, growing space, nursing under-performing, infected, trees.
I will have more information regarding the hardiness of "BM" after the winter of '14-'15. Hopefully, my "BM"trees will survive the cold storage period in my unheated shed....although I will use a supplemental heat-source (light bulbs) to keep the roots from freezing solid. Time will tell.
Frank