Solanum lycopersicum ‘Cherokee Purple’ – Cherokee Purple Tomato, Cherokee Purple Heirloom Tomato

Description

Solanum lycopersicum ‘Cherokee Purple’ is a celebrated heirloom beefsteak tomato variety known for its rich, complex flavor and distinctive dusky purple-brown fruits with green shoulders. The indeterminate plants are vigorous and productive, typically reaching 1.8 to 2.4 meters in height, and require staking or caging to support the heavy fruit load. The tomatoes are large, slightly flattened, and meaty, with a deep, sweet, smoky flavor balanced by moderate acidity, making them highly prized for fresh slicing, sandwiches, and gourmet dishes.

This variety thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil with consistent watering. It performs best in warm growing conditions but is also valued for its adaptability and reliable production across a range of climates.

Sow seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Transplant outdoors only after all danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures are consistently above 16°C to 18 °C. In mild or frost-free climates, seeds can be started from late winter to early spring for best results.