Black Cherry Tomato
Solanum lycopersicum
Approximately 25 seeds per pack.
Germination ~ 98% Feb 2025 Packed for 2025
DAYS TO MATURITY: 60-70 days
TYPE: Indeterminate
PLANT DESCRIPTION: (Solanum lycopersicum) The Black Cherry tomato plant is a captivating heirloom variety renowned for its unique and distinctive characteristics. This indeterminate cherry tomato plant produces clusters of small, round fruits with a striking deep purple to almost black hue. The tomatoes, typically about the size of a cherry, boast a sweet and rich flavor with complex undertones, making them a delightful addition to salads or enjoyed as a flavorful snack. The indeterminate nature of the plant means it continues to produce fruit throughout the growing season, providing a steady supply of these unique and flavorful tomatoes. With its prolific fruiting and visually appealing dark-colored tomatoes, the Black Cherry tomato plant is not only a favorite among home gardeners but also adds a touch of gourmet flair to a variety of culinary creations.
HISTORY:
The Black Cherry Tomato is a modern heirloom-type variety bred in the late 20th century to combine the unique, complex flavor of black tomatoes with the convenience and productivity of cherry types. While traditional black tomatoes such as Cherokee Purple and Black Krim trace back to Russia, Ukraine, and Eastern Europe, Black Cherry was specifically developed in the United States to provide gardeners with a small-fruited, open-pollinated variety that carries the deep, smoky sweetness characteristic of darker tomatoes. Over the past few decades, it has become a beloved addition to seed catalogs and backyard gardens worldwide, appreciated for its rich taste and reliable yields.
NUTRITIONAL VALUE: These tomatoes are a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health. They also contain significant amounts of vitamin A, promoting vision and overall well-being. Tomatoes are low in calories and fat but provide dietary fiber, contributing to digestive health. Additionally, tomatoes, in general, are renowned for their lycopene content, a powerful antioxidant associated with various health benefits, including heart health.
FOOD PREP: This unique variety of tomatoes is a culinary gem, known for their incredible versatility and ability to enhance a wide array of dishes. Whether enjoyed fresh or cooked, tomatoes bring vibrant color, robust flavor, and a touch of acidity to countless recipes. Sliced tomatoes elevate salads and sandwiches, while ripe, juicy tomatoes are a key component in refreshing salsas and bruschettas. Tomatoes are the star of classic pasta sauces, adding depth and sweetness, and they shine in dishes like caprese salads, showcasing their synergy with fresh basil and mozzarella. Roasted tomatoes impart a rich, concentrated flavor to soups and stews, and sun-dried tomatoes offer an intense burst of umami in various Mediterranean-inspired dishes. From sauces to salsas, salads to soups, and beyond, the culinary uses of tomatoes are as diverse as their varieties, making them an indispensable ingredient in kitchens worldwide.
GROWING TIPS:
As an indeterminate variety, Black Cherry Tomatoes thrive when given sturdy support such as stakes, trellises, or cages. They perform best in USDA Hardiness Zones 3–11, though they require full sun and warm temperatures for fruiting. Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost date, sowing them at a depth of ¼ inch in light, well-draining soil. Transplant seedlings outdoors once soil temperatures reach at least 60°F and nighttime frost danger has passed. Regular watering, mulching, and balanced fertilization promote vigorous growth. Pruning suckers and maintaining good airflow helps prevent common tomato diseases.
Harvesting Guidance
Black Cherry Tomatoes typically reach maturity in about 64–70 days from transplant. Fruits should be harvested when they develop their deep mahogany-purple coloration and feel slightly soft to the touch. Regular picking encourages continuous production throughout the season. Because of their thin skins, handle gently to avoid splitting, and enjoy them fresh for the fullest flavor, though they can also be preserved in sauces, roasted, or dried for extended use.
