Description
Heirloom Cherokee Purple Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Description:
The Heirloom Cherokee Purple Tomato is a beloved, heritage variety known for its rich, complex flavor and striking appearance. Originally cultivated by the Cherokee Nation, this tomato has stood the test of time, offering a taste of history with every bite.
History:
Cherokee Purple tomatoes were handed down through generations, preserving the tradition of Cherokee agricultural heritage. Their popularity has continued to grow, thanks to their unique flavor and historical significance.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, the Heirloom Cherokee Purple Tomato offers a taste of history and excellence in your home garden.
Appearance:
Cherokee Purple tomatoes are medium to large in size, with a deep, dusky purple color that develops alongside hints of green near the stem end. The unique coloration makes them visually stunning, adding a touch of elegance to any garden or plate.
Flavor Profile:
This variety boasts a distinctive, sweet yet tangy flavor with earthy undertones. The combination of complex, rich taste and low acidity sets Cherokee Purple apart from many other tomato varieties, making it a favorite among home gardeners and chefs alike.
Growth Habit:
Heirloom Cherokee Purple tomatoes are indeterminate, meaning they continue to produce fruit throughout the growing season until frost. They thrive in well-drained soil with full sun exposure and can reach heights of 6 to 8 feet when supported with stakes or trellises.
Uses:
Cherokee Purple tomatoes are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. They are perfect for slicing fresh on sandwiches and salads, or for use in sauces, salsas, and canning. Their bold flavor holds up well in a variety of culinary applications.
Growing Tips:
- Provide ample staking or trellising to support heavy fruit.
- Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Harvest when the tomatoes reach their deep purple hue and yield slightly to gentle pressure.
Indeterminate. 6 to 8 hrs full sun. Well draining slightly acidic soil. Best growth and fruit between 65 and 85 degrees for spring/summer or summer/fall. May split when heat stressed. Will stall in Mid Summer Texas. Prefers 24” dia. pot. Fertilize with NPK 5-10-5. Provide 1 to 2 inches of water weekly but can also hold up under short periods of drought. Leaves and stems toxic to pets.
