Black Brandywine Tomato
Solanum lycopersicum
Seeds per pack ~25
Germination: 96% Feb 2025 Packed for 2025
Origins and History
The Black Brandywine Tomato is a rare and distinctive heirloom variety believed to have originated as a natural cross between the famous Brandywine tomato and a black tomato, possibly from the Cherokee or Black Krim lineage. While traditional Brandywines date back to the late 1800s in Pennsylvania, the Black Brandywine emerged later, carrying forward the rich heritage of the Brandywine line but adding the depth of color and smoky complexity of dark-fruited tomatoes. Its preservation and cultivation in seed-saving communities have helped keep this unique tomato alive as a valued heirloom.
Appearance and Characteristics
This tomato is known for its large, beefsteak-style fruits that can weigh up to one pound or more. The skin ripens to a dusky deep purple-red with green shoulders, while the interior flesh is a rich maroon. Its texture is meaty yet juicy, with small seed cavities. The flavor is complex—sweet, earthy, and slightly smoky, a hallmark of black tomatoes. The indeterminate vines are vigorous, with potato-leaf foliage typical of Brandywines, though yields can be somewhat modest compared to hybrid varieties.
Culinary Uses
Black Brandywine is prized in the kitchen for its exceptional flavor and versatility. Its large slices are perfect for sandwiches, burgers, and fresh salads, where their deep color and rich taste stand out. The tomatoes also lend themselves to roasting, sauces, and salsas, imparting a complex sweetness and depth that enhances cooked dishes. Many gardeners grow it specifically for fresh eating during the peak of tomato season.
Growing Tips
Black Brandywine thrives in USDA zones 3–11, though it requires a long, warm growing season to reach full maturity. Seeds should be started indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost, sowing them about ¼ inch deep in well-draining soil. Transplant seedlings outdoors once nighttime temperatures are consistently above 55°F and all danger of frost has passed. Plants benefit from sturdy support such as cages or stakes due to their vigorous, sprawling vines. Regular watering, mulching, and deep, nutrient-rich soil help ensure healthy growth and better fruit set.
Harvesting Guidance
Fruits are typically ready to harvest in about 80–90 days from transplanting. They should be picked when the skin develops its full dusky maroon color with slight green shoulders and feels slightly soft to the touch. Because the fruit is prone to cracking, it is best to harvest promptly after heavy rains or irregular watering. Tomatoes can be harvested at the "breaker stage" (just as color starts to appear) and allowed to finish ripening indoors to avoid splitting. Enjoy them fresh for peak flavor or preserve through canning and freezing to savor their rich taste year-round.
