Riccio di Parma

Riccio di Parma is a traditional heirloom tomato variety originating from the Parma region in Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Its name translates to "curly of Parma," reflecting its distinctive heavily ribbed and pleated appearance. The fruits are large, scarlet red, and can weigh between 250 to 900 grams (approximately 0.5 to 2 pounds).

They have a flattened shape with pronounced wrinkling, giving them a unique and rustic look. This variety is known for its meaty texture and rich, sweet flavor, making it particularly well-suited for sauces, canning, and slicing. The plants are indeterminate, meaning they produce fruit continuously over the growing season, and they exhibit regular leaf foliage.

Due to the size and weight of the fruits, which can reach up to 2 pounds 10 ounces (approximately 1.2 kilograms), it's advisable to provide sturdy support to the plants to handle the heavy yields. The riccio di Parma tomato is cherished for its versatility in culinary applications, offering a robust flavor profile that enhances a variety of dishes.

Its historical roots in the Parma region highlight its significance in Italian agricultural heritage.