Characterization Descriptors of the Heirloom Tomato "Belle Portugaise"

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

Belle Portugaise is an iconic heirloom variety that represents the rich tomato tradition of Portugal, where it has been cultivated since around the 1950s. This variety emerged during the golden age of beefsteak tomato development in Portugal, when Portuguese growers perfected large-sized varieties that were perfectly suited to the country's Mediterranean climate, particularly in regions like the Douro Valley.

Portugal has a long tradition of growing large-format tomatoes, especially the varieties known as "Coração de Boi" (Ox Heart), and Belle Portugaise represents an evolution of this tradition. The variety was developed and selected by Portuguese growers seeking to combine exceptional size with the authentic flavor of heirloom tomatoes. Its French name, "Belle Portugaise," reflects the international acclaim this variety has achieved for its beauty and exceptional quality.

Curiosities of Variety

• Portuguese tradition : Cultivated in Portugal since the 1950s, forming part of the national agricultural heritage
• Giant Beefsteak : Capable of producing fruit weighing over a kilogram under optimal growing conditions.
• Mediterranean Heritage : Specifically adapted to the sunny and warm climate of the Portuguese Mediterranean
• Traditional flavor : Preserves the authentic flavor of old Portuguese tomatoes
• International recognition : Its quality has made it popular beyond the borders of Portugal.
• Productive variety : Known for its excellent productivity despite the large size of its fruits
• Classic Beefsteak : Represents the perfect archetype of the Mediterranean beefsteak tomato

Cultural Importance

Belle Portugaise embodies the Portuguese passion for large-format tomatoes with exceptional flavor. In Portugal, the tomato is not simply an ingredient, but a fundamental cultural element that defines the national gastronomic identity. This variety represents the culmination of decades of traditional Portuguese selection, with each family and region developing their own lines of giant tomatoes. Its preservation is crucial to keeping the Portuguese beefsteak tomato tradition alive and to understanding the evolution of large-format Mediterranean varieties.

1. PLANT DESCRIPTORS

3. FRUIT DESCRIPTORS

6. AGRONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS

7. RESISTANCES AND TOLERANCES

SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE "BELLE PORTUGAISE" VARIETY

Featured Attributes:

• Giant fruits : Exceptional capacity to produce tomatoes weighing over 1 kilogram with concentrated flavor
• Authentic Portuguese flavor : Dense, aromatic and sweet flavor that represents the excellence of traditional Portuguese tomatoes
• Exceptional flesh : Very dense and fleshy pulp with few seeds, ideal for slicing and preserving
• Mediterranean adaptation : Perfectly adapted to the warm and sunny climate of the Mediterranean
• Remarkable productivity : Excellent production despite the gigantic size of the fruits
• Cultural heritage : Represents 70 years of Portuguese tradition in beefsteak tomatoes
• Visual beauty : Perfectly grooved fruits that justify its name of "Bella Portuguesa"

Limitations:

• Disease Susceptibility : Like many traditional varieties, it has little resistance to modern diseases.
• Late Season : Requires a long growing season to fully develop its giant fruits
• Robust support required : Vigorous plants with heavy fruit require very strong staking
• Specialized management : Requires experience in growing large-format varieties
• Climate sensitivity : Although heat tolerant, it can be sensitive to sudden temperature changes.
• Delicate storage : Giant fruits require careful handling during harvesting.

Recommended Uses:

• Portuguese Heritage Conservation : Essential to Preserving Portugal's Tomato Tradition
• Gourmet fresh consumption : Exceptional for slicing into dishes where the tomato is the star
• Mediterranean cuisine : Ideal for traditional Portuguese and Iberian dishes
• Exhibitions and competitions : Perfect for giant tomato competitions
• Artisanal preserves : Excellent for making high-quality preserves, sauces and concentrates
• Mediterranean collecting : Essential for collectors of Iberian varieties
• Beefsteak research : Valuable for studies on the development of large-format tomatoes
• Demonstration gardens : Ideal for showcasing the diversity of traditional European varieties
• Cultural Education : An excellent tool for teaching about Portuguese agricultural traditions
• Fine dining : Highly appreciated by chefs seeking authentic Mediterranean ingredients

Data based on documentation from Graines Baumaux, records from Portuguese growers, information from Cultive ta rue, references to Portuguese tomato growing traditions, and testimonials from Mediterranean variety specialists.