Principe Borghese – Italian plum tomato for drying and sauce
What is Principe Borghese?
Principe Borghese is a compact plum tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) known for its firm fruits and low water content – ideal for sun-drying, tomato sauce or slow roasting. A favourite if you want to grow tomatoes at home for cooking.
Background and name
The name comes from the Italian noble family Borghese. The variety is a classic in southern Italy and is often used to make ‘pomodori secchi’ – sun-dried tomatoes.
Appearance and growth habit
A tall-growing (indeterminate) variety that requires side-shoot removal. Bears trusses of oval, deep red tomatoes of around 30–50 grams.
Flavour and uses of Principe Borghese
Meaty, intense tomatoes with a robust flavour. Perfect for the oven, for drying or for blending into flavoursome sauces.
Ripening time, resistance and storage
Ripens after about 75 days. Very resistant to fruit splitting and copes well with dry summers. Long shelf life even after harvest.
Pollination tips
Shake the plant or use a small brush when growing in a greenhouse.
How to grow Principe Borghese
Sow in March. Plant outdoors or in a greenhouse. Remove side shoots and give support. Ripens about 75 days after planting out.
Price is for 10 tomato seeds
Sow in seed compost and keep the compost moist. Pot on once the true leaves have developed. Does well in a warm spot with even watering and feeding.
