Cherokee purple is the name of a cultivar of
tomato, unusual for the deep purple/red hue of its fruit. It was one of the first of the "
black" color group of tomatoes. It is also unusual in being extremely popular for the sake of its flavor, instead of only its unusual color. Cherokee Purple tomatoes are beefsteak in style, with "
green shoulders" across the top. They are also notable for having a dense, juicy texture, with small seed locules irregularly scattered throughout the flesh. The comparatively dark interior color is enhanced by the tendency of the seeds to be surrounded by green gel. (Information found on the internet.)
 |
| The Saturday Farmers Market in Friday Harbor,WA, had folks standing in line for these tomatoes! |
 |
| The Cherokee Purple Tomato |
 |
| Just a little comparison so you can see that delicious color! |
6 comments:
I discovered the Cherokee Purple several years ago and they instantly became my favorite tomato. They have such an interesting history too. We've tried to grow them, with some to little success. Thank goodness we can easily find them at our local farmer's market. Cheers to the Cherokees and their purple tomato.
Sam
I have not found these locally - yet. They are beautiful! (But I have had red celery...)
Thank you for the beautiful photos.
Mimi
I found an abundance of these in Michigan last summer and made gorgeous tomato & goat cheese tarts with them. Some times I can get them at Whole Foods in Dallas.
Fabulous photos!
Heirloom tomatoes went out of favour as being the ugly ducklings of tomatoes, but today they are considered the most beautiful, at least in my eyes. I tried growing a few varieties in my garden this year, sadly none of this variety but there is always net year!
I have one in my garden that looks just like that - called Noir Crimea.... Actually, your box looks like my basket after I pick LOL
Love tomato season!
I tried growing Cherokee Purple one year and it didn't do well for me. This, however, has been the best summer for growing tomatoes with the heat and lack of fungus-encouraging rains. I wish I would have planted this one again!
Post a Comment