Tomàtiga de Ramellet de Ferro Longkeeper Tomato Seeds

Ferro is a traditional longkeeper tomato from Son Fortuny, Sant Joan, Mallorca, Spain. Known locally as tomàtiga de ramellet de ferro, this heritage variety is documented for its drought resistance and suitability for dry farming. It belongs to Mallorca’s traditional ramellet tomatoes, selected for their ability to keep after harvest and provide tomatoes through the winter.

A tomato for dry farming

Ferro is particularly interesting for growers who cultivate tomatoes without regular irrigation. Its drought resistance is documented by Mallorca’s Associació de Varietats Locals, which identifies it as suitable for dry-farming conditions. Under these conditions, the plants can be grown without staking; staking is recommended when the plants receive irrigation.

Dry farming makes use of the moisture already available in the soil rather than relying on regular supplemental watering. Ferro’s Mallorcan heritage makes it a valuable variety to consider for growers exploring traditional tomatoes adapted to drier growing conditions.

Fruit and growth characteristics

Ferro produces small, round, pink tomatoes, typically around 30–40 g according to the seed supplier. The plants are indeterminate, continuing to grow and produce fruit throughout the season. The reported maturity period is approximately 75–80 days.

Traditional winter storage

Ferro belongs to Mallorca’s tomàtiga de ramellet tradition. These tomatoes are harvested and tied together by their stems into strings or bunches, then hung in a dry, well-ventilated place. Stored carefully and checked regularly, ramellet tomatoes can remain usable through winter and, under suitable conditions, into spring.

This traditional storage method extends the use of the summer harvest long after fresh tomatoes stop producing in the garden.

How to eat Ferro

One of the traditional Mallorcan uses for ramellet tomatoes is pa amb oli — bread with olive oil. Ripe tomato is rubbed directly over rustic bread, allowing the flesh and juice to soak into the surface. Extra-virgin olive oil and salt are added, with cheese or cured meats served alongside or on top.

Ferro can also be used in sauces, sofritos and stews. Its traditional role as a storage tomato makes it useful for cooking through the colder months when fresh garden tomatoes are no longer available.

Ferro brings together three important qualities: Mallorcan agricultural heritage, documented drought resistance and traditional long-term storage. For gardeners interested in dry farming, heritage food crops and extending the harvest beyond summer, it is a particularly worthwhile tomato to grow.