Cordeliere
Additional Information
See Rolland (1914) for synonymy. In 1700, Tournefort described Figue Cordeliere or Servantine, and quoted the description given by Cupani four years earlier. The latter did not use the same variety names, but reported that it was commonly known as Ficazzini Vera. Later authorities, who apparently described the same variety, are: Garidel (1715), La Brousse (1774), Bernard (1787), Rozier (1805), Duhamel (1809), Lamarck (1817), Risso (1826), Lherault (1872), Sauvaigo (1889, 1894), Eisen (1901), Estelrich (1910, probably), Rolet (1916), and Leclerc (1925). This fig was described by Duhamel as Servantine, showing illustrations in color; also by Risso as Ficus carica cotignana, commonly known as Observantine. Simonet et al. (1945) consider Cordeliere and Cotignana as identical, and give other local names, such as Celestine. However, the last name is regarded by Societe' Pomologique de France (1887, 1947) also by Eisen as properly belonging to still another French fig of ashy-gray color. See accounts of Observantine and Celestine. Apparently Cordeliere has not been grown in California, at least under that name. The tree of Cordeliere produces two crops, of which the first is the most highly regarded. Leaves are 5-lobed, with the middle lobe unusually long. Brebas are larger and more elongated than figs of the main crop; quality good. Second-crop figs spherical, small, 1 inch in diameter, according to Bernard, about 1-1/2 inches long and 1-1/4 inches in diameter, according to Risso; ribs elevated; stalk short; color yellowish green; pulp delicate rose. Figs often plunged into boiling water to facilitate drying. Season early. (701)