Denomination and synonyms
The name “Nevadillo” refers to two different features. In some regions it refers to the whitish appearance of its foliage compared to another common variety in the area. This is the case for “Nevadillo Blanco” (a synonym for “Picual”), found in various districts of Córdoba, in particular in the mountains. When compared to “Lechín de Sevilla”, whose foliage is bright green, “Picual” trees seem whiter. However, the appearance of ‘Nevadillo Negro’ trees, generally closer to that of the “Picual” than that of the “Lechín de Sevilla”, involves a darker tint which is the reason for this paradoxical name. In other districts of the Campiña-Penibética area of Córdoba the name “Nevadillo” refers to the whitish appearance of the fruit, the result of an abundant waxy secretion. No synonyms for this name have been found.
Geographical distribution, importance and interest
This variety is the second most important within the Sierra de Córdoba district. It is the base for some plantations in that district, so it has been considered secondary. In Córdoba there are 10,109 hectares of this crop which represents 3.42% of the province’s olive groves (Ministry of Agriculture, 1974).
Agronomic features
As the area in which this variety is found is mainly occupied by the “Nevadillo Blanco” (synonym for “Picual”), their characteristics are given by comparing them to this.
So, they are considered more hardy and resistant to drought than “Picual”, although they have a lower fat yield. They are also more resistant to pests such as olive moths and mites.
Harvesting is more difficult due to the increased force with which the fruit is held. Their productivity is lower, but they have more consistent harvests.
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