Cherry Cordial

Cherry Cordial is a California fig discovered by the collector known as Fig Gazer growing at the base of a large palm tree in Santa Barbara. Whether the original tree was a naturally occurring seedling or a long-forgotten planting remains unknown, adding an element of mystery to one of the most distinctive modern fig introductions. Its unusual foliage has led some growers to speculate that it may have Ficus palmata ancestry, though this has never been confirmed. Since its introduction, Cherry Cordial has earned an enthusiastic following among collectors for its unforgettable flavor, vigorous growth, and exceptional fruit quality.

The small to medium-sized figs ripen to a dark purple-black exterior with an intensely juicy ruby-red interior. True to its name, Cherry Cordial offers a flavor unlike almost any other fig, combining ripe black cherry, raspberry preserves, and mixed berry syrup. The remarkably thin, tender skin melts into the flesh, while the interior is soft, juicy, and bursting with syrup rather than dense or paste-like. One of the variety's most celebrated qualities is its ability to partially dry on the tree, concentrating the sugars into an intensely rich cherry flavor that closely resembles a cherry cordial confection.

Cherry Cordial is an exceptionally vigorous, fast-growing tree that performs best when planted in the ground and provided with consistent moisture throughout the growing season. It is notably sensitive to drought stress and may shed developing fruit if allowed to dry out, but attentive watering is rewarded with abundant crops of premium-quality figs. The fruit features a small, tight eye and excellent resistance to spoilage, allowing it to remain on the tree as its flavors continue to concentrate. With its unique cherry-forward flavor profile, beautiful fruit, and outstanding eating quality, Cherry Cordial has become one of the most memorable and sought-after modern California fig discoveries.