Ferrovia (ciliegia ferrovia, "cherry of the railway") is a cultivar of sweet cherry originating in Italy, where it is the most important variety in the Apulia growing region.
| Ferrovia cherry | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Genus | Prunus |
| Species | Prunus avium |
| Cultivar | Ferrovia |
| Origin | Apulia, Italy |
History and name edit
There are multiple stories of the origin of the Ferrovia cultivar. One version states that it originated on a small farm in Turi, where two local farmers, Giovanni Arrè and Matteo Di Venere, cultivated the original tree from a seed left over from a meal. When the fruit of this tree proved popular, it was extensively grafted by other farmers in the region and became widespread.[1] In another version, the tree received its name because it was first discovered growing near a railway line between Turi and Sammichele di Bari.[2][3] The Ferrovia is the most widely grown cherry in Italy,[2] and is also grown in northern Greece.[4]
It has been suggested that the Ferrovia cherry is derived from 'Schneiders', an old German sweet cherry cultivar.[5]
Tree characteristics edit
The Ferrovia cherry tree is vigorous and upright to spreading, reaching a height of 10 meters. It produces white flowers in the spring and has dark green foliage. It is self-incompatible and requires a pollinator.[6]
Fruit edit
The fruit of the Ferrovia cherry tree is ready for harvest in mid-May to early June.[3] The fruits are very large, slightly pointed, and bright red, with a crunchy texture.[7]
References edit
- ^ De Carolis, Stefano, "On Turi’s ciliegia ferrovia and how it was born from a cherry stone"
- ^ a b Delicious Italy: June Cherry Festivals in Puglia
- ^ a b Good Fruit Guide: Ferrovia
- ^ "Food Authentication: Techniques, Trends and Emerging Approaches", pg. 108
- ^ "Cherry double?"
- ^ Prunus avium 'Ferrovia'
- ^ Frudis
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