Tomato Cherokee Purple

Lycopersicon esculentum

Characteristics

Culture

Tomato Cherokee Purple, a Tennessee heirloom tomato, sometimes called a black tomato, reputably originated from the Native Cherokee Indians before 1890.  This giant beefsteak tomato produces elegant fruits that are 5″ in diameter. Large fruits are a dark red, almost purple color with some green coloration towards the stem. The unique color of the dark, dusky purple fruits carries through the flesh to the stem end.  The large, highly flavorful fruits of this variety are smooth with slightly ridged shoulders.  They’re very sweet and have a rich, almost smoky flavor. The fruit is large and refreshingly acidic, thick-skinned with an earthy, lingering flavor.

Cherokee Purple Tomato is an indeterminate variety, which means they will continue producing throughout the warmer months. Prune bottom lateral stems to improve airflow through plants and reduce the possibility of plant diseases. Let the fruit ripen on the vine for the best flavor. This one is a consistent taste test winner at tomato fests around the country.

Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This
ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits
clean.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Cherokee Purple tomatoes are one of America’s most popular heirloom tomatoes due to their intense, old-fashioned tomato flavor. Like many heirloom tomatoes, the exact history is unknown, but these tomatoes are believed to have been handed down through generations from the Cherokee people in the area of Eastern Tennessee. This heritage variety was introduced to present-day gardeners by heirloom seed-saver and tomato expert Craig LeHoullier. These tomatoes have an intense, complex, old-fashioned tomato flavor. These tomatoes have a rich aroma, accompanied by the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Cherokee Purple tomatoes are quite juicy, almost like a ripe peach. The tomato pulp has a pleasant firm-yet-fine texture.

Problems

This is a disease-resistant, indeterminate variety.  Cherokee Purple tomato plants are easily damaged at temperatures below 43°F.

Garden Uses

Tomatoes are grown primarily in vegetable gardens or containers for their fruits. The fruits can be eaten fresh, dried, or cooked for use in sauces, soups, curries, and other dishes. Slice Cherokee Purple tomato
for rich, dark color and unmatched sweet, rich taste on sandwiches or in salads.