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.
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.
Ponte Tresa Fig Tree
Why choosing the right fig variety matters
Choosing the right fig variety can make all the difference in so many positive or even negative ways. A variety that is well suited to your climate and taste preferences will ensure that your getting the fig experience that you deserve.
It's heartbreaking when you put years of work into a tree to finally realize that it's just not suited to your location because it will rarely produce high quality figs and in some cases, may never produce fruit that's even edible!
Fig varieties are very location specific because they're so highly subjected to their environment while they're ripening. Unlike many other fruits, the fig can be destroyed in its final ripening stage. It's a soft fruit that can absorb water into its skin causing cracking, splitting, mold & fermentation all because the inside of the fruit gets exposed to the outside elements of nature.
An apple has a hard covering. A persimmon has a hard covering. Berries and other soft fleshed fruits are also susceptible to bad weather conditions, but they have a short window of time in which they're soft and ready to be picked. Figs can be soft hanging on the tree for 5, 10 or even 15 days!
How to choose the right fig variety for your climate
When choosing a fig variety, it's important to consider the climate in your area during the winter, summer and fall.
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Some fig varieties are more tolerant of cold weather and others can be grown in climates that have mild summers because of their reliable breba production or their early main crop harvest period.
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Others are better suited for humid climates because they don't need to hang as long on the tree and they have a skin that acts like a waterproof jacket. The water just slides right off.
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Others are better suited to warmer climates and have the ability to taste incredible even in 100-110F temperatures.
If you want fig variety recommendations, read through the description of each fig variety carefully, or better yet, don't be afraid to contact me. In your message, include your growing zone, location, annual rainfall, and how you want to grow them.
To read more about choosing the right fig variety, click here:
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