Characterization Descriptors of the Heirloom Tomato "Rojo de Isla"

Infinite Seeds Association

We curate, preserve, and reproduce a collection of 1,700 heirloom tomato varieties for public use. We work to prevent genetic erosion.

History and Origin of the Variety

Historical Origin

Rojo de Isla is a native heirloom variety originating from the coastal town of Isla in Cantabria, Spain, belonging to the municipality of Arnuero in the Trasmiera region. This variety represents the result of decades of natural selection and traditional breeding carried out by the local gardeners of this coastal town in northern Cantabria.

The history of Isla Rojo is closely linked to the agricultural tradition of the town of Isla, located on the shores of the Cantabrian Sea and benefiting from the unique climatic conditions of the Cantabrian coast. For generations, local gardening families have maintained and perfected this variety, passing it down from parents to children as part of the regional genetic heritage.

This variety has traditionally been cultivated in small family gardens on Isla Island, where the maritime microclimate, characterized by the influence of iodine and sea salt, has contributed to developing the unique flavor and adaptation characteristics that define this tomato. Isla's gardeners have carefully preserved the seeds year after year, always selecting the best specimens to ensure the continued preservation of desirable characteristics.

Curiosities of Variety

• Coastal origin: Developed in the coastal city of Isla, Cantabria, under the influence of the Cantabrian Sea
• Marine influence: Grown under the influence of iodine and sea salt that characterize the area
• Local heritage: It is part of the five most important traditional varieties of Cantabria
• Centennial selection: Result of generations of selection by local gardeners
• Climate adaptation: Perfectly adapted to the humid and temperate climate of the Cantabrian coast
• Family tradition: Passed down from generation to generation among the gardening families of Isla
• Regional recognition: Included in official programs for the recovery of native varieties
• Natural resistance: Developed natural resistance to fungi such as powdery mildew and downy mildew

Cultural Importance

The Isla Red variety transcends its horticultural value to become a symbol of Cantabrian agricultural identity, specifically of the city of Isla. This variety represents the continuity of a horticultural tradition that has successfully taken advantage of the unique conditions of the Atlantic climate to develop a tomato with exceptional organoleptic characteristics.

Its cultivation in the small family gardens of Isla, Quejo, and the surrounding neighborhoods has been a practice for decades that unites tradition, subsistence, and culinary quality. The area's gardeners have acted as true custodians of the genetic heritage, preserving this variety against the standardization of commercial varieties.

The Red Isla variety is part of the group of varieties that define the identity of the Cantabrian tomato, along with others such as the Gordo de Vioño, the Rosa de Liaño, and the Rionansa, constituting a unique genetic heritage that reflects the diversity and richness of traditional Cantabrian agriculture.

1. PLANT DESCRIPTORS

3. FRUIT DESCRIPTORS

6. AGRONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS

7. RESISTANCES AND TOLERANCES

SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE "ROJO DE ISLA" VARIETY

Featured Attributes:

• Exceptional balanced flavor: Perfectly balanced sweetness and acidity make it ideal for salads
• Very pleasant texture: Firm meat with exceptional texture and very thin skin
• Intense aroma: Fragrant tomato with distinctive aromatic characteristics of the coastal terroir
• Natural fungal resistance: Resistant to the action of fungi such as powdery mildew and downy mildew
• Productive plant: High productivity with fruits of uniform and consistent size
• Coastal adaptation: Perfectly adapted to the humid climate of the Cantabrian coast
• Culinary versatility: Especially valued for fresh consumption and salads
• Unique genetic heritage: Native variety that represents Isla's horticultural tradition

Limitations:

• Specific size: Medium-sized fruits, not suitable for those looking for giant tomatoes
• Climate adaptation: Best expressed in humid Atlantic climates
• Limited availability: Local variety with distribution restricted to conservation programs
• Delicate leather: Very thin leather requires care in handling and transport.
• Season Specific: Mid-season cycle that requires proper planning

Recommended Uses:

• Gourmet salads: Ideal for salads where balanced flavor is the protagonist
• Premium fresh consumption: Excellent for tasting and direct consumption
• Cantabrian gastronomy: Perfect for traditional recipes from the region
• Collecting Atlantic varieties: Essential for tomato collections from northern Spain
• Growing in humid climates: Excellent option for regions with high relative humidity
• Heritage Preservation: Essential for Native Variety Conservation Programs
• Coastal Family Gardens: Ideal for Gardeners in Atlantic Coastal Areas
• Research on resistance: Valuable for studies on natural resistance to fungi
• Gastronomic tourism: Perfect for culinary experiences in Cantabria
• Biodiversity Education: An Excellent Tool for Teaching About Resistant Local Varieties

Data based on characterization provided by local growers in Isla, information from native variety recovery programs in Cantabria, records from Simientes Infinitas, and documentation of the horticultural heritage of the coastal city of Isla in Cantabria.