It was the custom in that country to plant fruit
trees along the side of the road. The fruit became
common property.

Although it was early in the year for figs to ripen,
the tree was covered with leaves looking like
there would be fruit on it.

When Jesus went over to the tree He found that
there was nothing on it. So He cursed the tree.
He said, "Let no fruit grow on thee henceforth
forever" Matthew 21:19

Jesus and His disciple went on to the temple and
left the fig tree to wither and dry up from its
roots.