Cardenillo
Wowie wow, this one is GOOD! 🤩 A top favorite that hits that berry punch with a tropical twist!
Type: Common
Family: Unknown
Flavor Group: Red Berry
Season: Mid
Breba Crop: No
Origin: Spain, Wild Figs Jesus or JW Figs on Facebook
Possible synonyms: None known
How To Pronounce
(kär dĭ NEE yō)
Description
Cardenillo is a wild fig from Spain that is popular in Asia, the US, and the tropics. The word “cardenillo” in Spanish means “verdigris” in English which is a type of green patina. It apparently is one that does well in a variety of climates including colder ones.
Cardenillo is a greenish-yellow fig with a vibrant red interior and tight eye. It is also one that is typically more oblate in shape, little to no neck, and can get cracks in the skin. This variety for me has not been very vigorous, in fact, it has remained quite short even after 4 years. Slower growth seems typical for this variety, though some do report having a more vigorous copy. It is also one that seems more prone to spoiling or Black Fig Fly issues. I’ve had it for several years but have never had a fig until now because of this reason. It really benefited this season from mineral nutrients, especially calcium and the other micros. So if you have a Cardenillo tree that is underperforming, really consider upping its nutrients and soil microbial content. The fruit size does increase as the tree matures.
I am so glad I have given this variety time because it is definitely one of my favorites this year. It has such a delicious berry fruit punch flavor and I have been fighting my dogs for who can get to them first. In fact, you can maybe tell from my pictures that I don’t have many to share here and I’m picking it earlier than usual just so I can have one! The flavor is complex with what comes across as a tropical note in there, it’s the first fig that made me think of that old kids’ drink Hawaiian Punch— though I haven’t had it in a long time to be fair and there’s nothing artificial about this fig’s taste. It definitely has a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other figs. It’s also one that can be quite fragrant when you cut it open which is not a common thing with many figs. It is a very yummy and delicious fig that I will definitely hang on to.
»» Do you have pictures of Cardenillo that you would like to add to this variety’s gallery? Let me know in the comments or DM!
