Organic 'Red Fig' Tomato
Organic 'Red Fig' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, an old Italian cherry in the shape of a small fig, sweet and perfect for drying
The 'Red Fig' tomato is a fascinating heirloom variety whose history dates back to the 1700s, when it was cultivated in Italy and prized for its exceptional versatility. Indeterminate and very vigorous, it produces abundant clusters of small, pear- or fig-shaped red cherry tomatoes , possessing a simple beauty and old-world charm. Their sweet, slightly honeyed flavor lends itself equally well to fresh eating and drying: whole, they resemble small dried figs, and sliced, they become delicious, concentrated nuggets ideal for enhancing salads, pasta dishes, or appetizers.
Its sprawling, large and prolific plants offer a generous production throughout the season, making 'Red Fig' a valuable heirloom variety for gardeners seeking a cherry tomato that is both original, visual and deeply rooted in European horticultural tradition.
Companion plants : Basil, parsley, carrot, asparagus, alliums, celery, borage, marigold, calendula, mint, sage, peppers, dill (until mature)
Negative plants : Potato, corn, kohlrabi, beetroot, fennel, peas, squash
Spread/carry : Indeterminate, sprawling
Plant height : 150 to 200 cm
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Red, fig-shaped fruits, ideal for drying, an 18th-century Italian variety, very abundant production
Farming method
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Plant seeds 3–6 mm (1/8–1/4") deep in a light potting mix. Maintain a temperature of 23–29°C for rapid germination in 5 to 10 days . Reduce watering and nitrogen during hardening off to produce strong, well-formed seedlings.
Transplant when all risk of frost has passed. Space plants 60 to 90 cm (24 to 36 inches) apart with 120 to 180 cm (4 to 6 feet) between rows. Provide full sun (level 3) and regular watering (watering level 3) . Due to its sprawling growth habit and heavy production, provide sturdy support .
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the fruit has turned a deep red and developed its sweet flavor. To get a head start, pick fruit that is just beginning to color , then let it ripen off the vine at 22°C (72°F) or higher . For drying, pick firm fruit and place it in a dehydrator or in the sun until it reaches the desired texture. Store fresh fruit between 12 and 21°C (54 and 70°F) with 95% relative humidity.
Usage ideas
• Perfect for drying whole or sliced , resembling small figs
• Delicious as a fresh, sweet and slightly fruity snack
• Ideal for salads, antipasti, pizzas and pasta dishes
• Excellent in preserves or homemade sun-dried tomato mixes
The 'Red Fig' tomato is an old horticultural treasure: generous, versatile, and possessing a unique historical charm. An essential variety for gardeners passionate about heritage tomatoes and the authentic flavors of the Old World.