Ponte Tresa Fig | Comprehensive Variety Review

There are 1000s of fig varieties in existence, but fig varieties like Ponte Tresa are worth learning about. Check out the other comprehensive variety reviews I’ve created on other fig varieties on the variety directory page found here:

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And check out my recent video on this variety to learn more about it below!

Varietal Characteristics

• Origin: Ponte Tresa, Switzerland

• Categorization: Unknown

• Similar varieties: None

• Taste grouping: Sugar Berry

• Texture: Jammy

• Size: Medium

• Ripening period: Midseason or Late

• Vigor: Average

• Rain resistance: Likely high

• Shape: Pyriforme

• Hang time: Average

• Split resistance: Above average

• Climate preference: Well adapted

• Hardiness: Unknown

• Taste rating: 4.7/5

• Light requirements: Unknown

• Productivity: Unknown

History and Other Information

The Ponte Tresa fig was once subject to significant controversy. At one point in time, this fig was valued at a hefty sum of a thousand dollars, leading to considerable uproar among fig collectors. Some even went as far as destroying the Mother tree located in Switzerland.

The coloration of the fig's pulp is noteworthy, which originally sparked interest from just a few photos.

I will admit, the purple pulp bleeding through the skin's exterior is impressive. Fig varieties that have a purple or black colored pulp usually have a strong blackberry or blueberry flavor. Ponte Tresa is exactly that. I thoroughly enjoy it and consider it a high-quality variety.

For more on the flavor categories of figs, check out all of the flavor profiles, here:

Ponte Tresa, situated on the border of Italy and Switzerland, boasts a unique geographic significance that imparts certain resilient characteristics to its native figs. The region frequently experiences fall rains, making rain resistance a quintessential trait for any fig variety emerging from this locale. Such resistance ensures the fruit's survival and quality, even in damp conditions. In addition, the colder winter temperatures of this region mirror those of the northeastern United States. This climate similarity means that fig varieties like the Ponte Tresa, Verdolino, and Moro de Caneva, which have adapted to the northern Italian and Swiss winters, often fare exceptionally well when introduced to the northeastern U.S.

Further evaluations are needed to comment on aspects like the skin’s absorption rate and split resistance. However, the hang time is about average and it ripens late in the season. 

Huge credit to Frank in Florida for finding and introducing this special variety.