Principe Borghese

Principe Borghese is a classic Italian heirloom tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) originating in Southern Italy circa 1910. Characterized by a bushy determinate growth habit with standard green foliage and yellow flowers, the plant produces heavy, dense trusses of small, plum-shaped red fruits recognized by their distinct pointed blossom ends.

Bred specifically for preservation rather than fresh slicing, this cultivar is defined by its dense flesh, two locules, and naturally low moisture content with minimal seed cavities. Combined with high cracking resistance and a rich, savory flavor profile, Principe Borghese remains the traditional standard for sun drying, dehydration, and long-term cluster storage.

Origin and Genetics

Principe Borghese is a heritage open-pollinated cultivar from Southern Italy, with documented introduction dating to circa 1910. Maintained as a stable heirloom, it breeds true to type from buff-colored seeds when kept isolated from other Solanum lycopersicum varieties in the garden.

Botanical Profile

The plant exhibits a compact, bushy determinate habit with regular green foliage. Its fruits belong to the small paste size class and mature from green to a uniform, vibrant red across both the body and shoulders. Morphologically, each plum-shaped fruit features a smooth skin of moderate thickness, no ribbing, and a characteristic pointed nipple at the blossom end.

Internally, the fruit possesses a thick, meaty pericarp containing two locules with low seed counts and minimal gel. The moderate skin thickness and dense cellular structure provide high cracking resistance on the vine.

Growth and Performance

Reaching harvest maturity approximately 75 days from transplant, Principe Borghese is noted for high heat tolerance and reliable production. It thrives under full sun in well-drained soil and warm conditions, making it equally adaptable to field cultivation, greenhouse culture, and container planting. The cultivar offers high yields, bearing abundant fruit loads in compact, heavy clusters that also lend the plant strong ornamental value.

Flavor and Aroma

The fruit delivers a classic tomato aroma accompanied by a rich, savory, and tangy flavor. Its balanced natural acidity and concentrated solids enhance its depth, especially when concentrated through heat or dehydration.

Culinary Applications

Principe Borghese is recognized as the quintessential standard for sun drying and dehydration. Due to its thick walls and low juice levels, it is poorly suited for fresh slicing, salads, or stuffing, but performs exceptionally well in cooked sauces, pastes, and slow roasting. Beyond standard canning, the intact trusses are traditionally harvested for winter preservation by hanging entire clusters in the traditional Italian al piennolo style.