Have you ever wondered what it would be like to savor a tomato so rich in flavor that it transports you back in time? Meet the Cherokee Purple tomato – an heirloom variety that has captivated gardeners and food enthusiasts for generations with its stunning appearance and unparalleled taste.
As you embark on this delicious journey, prepare to be amazed by the story behind this remarkable tomato and the cultural heritage it carries. From its origins in the Cherokee Nation to its rise as a beloved staple in modern gardens, the Cherokee Purple tomato truly celebrates diversity, resilience, and culinary excellence.
The Origins of the Cherokee Purple Tomato
The Cherokee Purple tomato’s origins can be traced back to the Cherokee people, a Native American tribe indigenous to the southeastern United States. This unique variety is believed to have been cultivated and passed down through generations within the Cherokee community, ultimately finding its way into the hands of passionate seed savers and gardeners.
In the early 1990s, a man named Craig LeHoullier, an avid tomato enthusiast from Pennsylvania played a pivotal role in popularizing the Cherokee Purple tomato. After receiving seeds from a fellow gardener, LeHoullier was captivated by the unique appearance and exceptional taste of this heirloom variety. Through his efforts and the sharing of seeds among the gardening community, the Cherokee Purple tomato gained widespread recognition and appreciation.
Quick facts about the Cherokee Purple tomato:
- Color: Deep purple-red with brownish-green undertones
- Size: Large beefsteak tomatoes, weighing 10-16 ounces
- Shape: Slightly flattened globe, often with irregular shapes
- Taste: Sweet, and rich, with a distinct smoky, wine-like undertone
- Texture: Juicy, meaty, with an abundance of seeds
- Plant Type: Indeterminate vining plants, capable of growing up to 8 feet tall
- Days to Maturity: 80-90 days from transplanting
- Yield: Moderate to high, with excellent disease resistance
- Heat Tolerance: Performs well in warm climates and can withstand moderate heat Hardiness
- Hardiness Zone: Best grown in zones 3-9
Pros
- Incredible flavor: rich, sweet, and smoky with a classic tomato taste
- Certified Organic heirloom variety developed by preserving Cherokee horticulture
- Excellent disease resistance for reliable harvests
- Large, meaty fruits with few seeds, ideal for slicing
- Versatile for fresh eating, grilling, sauces, and more
- Stunning dark purple-red color adds vibrant visual appeal
Cons
- Limited availability, often require sourcing from specialty suppliers
- Short shelf life, best consumed soon after harvesting
- Indeterminate vines grow very tall, need ample space and support
- Longer 80+ day maturity requires an extended growing season
- Can be challenging to find high-quality, non-hybrid seeds
- Thinner skins make fruits more prone to cracking and bruising
Unique Characteristics of the Cherokee Purple Tomato
When you first lay eyes on a ripe Cherokee Purple tomato, you can’t help but be captivated by its stunning appearance. The deep, dusky tones of purple, crimson, and brownish-green create a mesmerizing palette that seems almost otherworldly. This unique coloration is a result of the high levels of anthocyanins, the same pigments responsible for the rich hues found in blueberries and eggplants.
But the beauty of the Cherokee Purple tomato extends far beyond its visual appeal. It’s the flavor that truly sets this variety apart, a taste experience that can only be described as a symphony of flavors. As you bite into the juicy flesh, your taste buds are greeted by a perfect balance of sweetness, acidity, and a rich, almost smoky undertone that lingers pleasantly on the palate.
The Flavor and Texture of Cherokee Purple Tomatoes
Beyond its captivating appearance, the Cherokee Purple tomato is renowned for its intense and complex flavor. Unlike many modern tomato varieties that prioritize uniformity and shelf life over taste, this heirloom variety boasts a depth of flavor that is truly extraordinary.
The Cherokee Purple tomato offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart notes, with hints of richness and earthiness. Some describe its taste as a harmonious blend of smoky, fruity, and wine-like flavors, making it a true delight for the senses.
This exceptional flavor is attributed to the tomato’s high sugar and acid content, as well as its unique blend of aromatic compounds. The combination of these elements creates a flavor profile that is both robust and nuanced, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.
Growing and Caring for Cherokee Purple Tomatoes
While the Cherokee Purple tomato may be an heirloom variety, it’s far from delicate. In fact, this resilient plant is known for its excellent disease resistance and ability to thrive in a variety of growing conditions. However, like any tomato plant, it requires proper care and attention to yield a bountiful harvest.
Starting Indoors
If you live in an area with a shorter growing season, it’s recommended to start your Cherokee Purple tomato seeds indoors, about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Use a high-quality seed starting mix and ensure your seedlings receive ample light, either from a sunny window or a grow light. Once the risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up, it’s time to transplant your seedlings outdoors.
Choosing the Right Location
Cherokee Purple tomato plants thrive in full sun, so choose a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to provide the plants with the nutrients they need. Space your plants 24-36 inches apart in rows that are 36-48 inches apart, and water them thoroughly after transplanting.
Staking or Caging
As the Cherokee Purple tomato plants grow, they will need support to keep the heavy fruits off the ground and prevent breakage. You can either stake the plants individually or use sturdy tomato cages to provide the necessary support. Regular pruning and removal of suckers will also help direct the plant’s energy toward fruit production.
Watering and Fertilizing
Like any tomato plant, the Cherokee Purple variety requires consistent moisture, especially during fruit development. Water the plants deeply, aiming for about 1-2 inches of water per week, and avoid wetting the foliage to prevent disease. A balanced fertilizer or compost tea can be applied every 4-6 weeks to replenish nutrients in the soil.
Harvesting and Enjoying
After about 80-90 days from transplanting, you’ll begin to see the first fruits of your labor – literally! The Cherokee Purple tomatoes will start to ripen, taking on their signature deep purple hue and developing their rich, complex flavor.
When harvesting, handle the tomatoes gently to avoid bruising or damage. You can enjoy these tomatoes in a variety of ways – sliced and savored on their own, diced into salads, or cooked down into a flavorful sauce or salsa. Their unique taste and color will elevate any dish they grace.
Cherokee Purple Tomatoes: How to Store and Use
Cherokee Purples have tender skins that make fresh fruits highly perishable. For best flavor and texture, enjoy these tomatoes soon after picking. Cut fruits will quickly deteriorate in quality if left out.
At room temperature away from direct sun, freshly harvested Cherokee Purples may last a day or two before significant decline. Refrigeration is not recommended.
For longer storage, try these preservation methods for Cherokee Purple tomatoes:
- Canning – Process into canned tomato sauce, puree, or diced tomatoes. The rich flavor of Cherokee Purples intensifies when cooked down.
- Freezing – Blanch sliced tomatoes for 2 minutes, cool in an ice bath, pat dry, and freeze in airtight bags.
- Dehydrating – Use a dehydrator or oven to dry tomato halves or slices into chewy dried tomatoes. Store in airtight containers.
- Juicing – Make and freeze small batches of fresh Cherokee Purple tomato juice to enjoy year-round.
The delicate skin and soft flesh mean Cherokee Purples are best eaten very fresh, canned, or otherwise preserved right after harvest. They don’t store or ship as well as firmer tomato varieties.
Cherokee Purple Tomato Recipe Ideas
- Cherokee Purple Tomato Bruschetta: Diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, and balsamic on toasted bread.
- Grilled Cherokee Purple and Halloumi Skewers: Tomatoes and halloumi cheese alternated on skewers with red onion.
- Cherokee Purple Tomato Tart: Custard tart with sliced Cherokee Purples arranged artfully on top.
- Roasted Cherokee Purple Tomato Sauce: Roast with garlic and spices, then puree into a rich pasta sauce.
- Stuffed Cherokee Purples: Hollow out and stuff with quinoa, feta, roasted peppers, garlic, and dill.
- Chilled Cherokee Purple Gazpacho: Pureed cold soup with cucumber, onion, bell pepper, and tomato broth.
Where to Find Cherokee Purple Tomato Seeds and Plants
As the demand for heirloom varieties continues to rise, finding high-quality Cherokee Purple tomato seeds and plants has become easier than ever before. Many reputable seed companies and nurseries now offer this prized variety, ensuring that gardeners can experience the unique flavors and cultural heritage it represents.
Some trusted sources for obtaining Cherokee Purple tomato seeds and plants include:
- Seed Savers Exchange
- Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds
- Territorial Seed Company
- Johnny’s Selected Seeds
- Local nurseries and community gardens
It’s always advisable to order seeds or inquire about plant availability early in the growing season to ensure you can secure your desired supply.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Cherokee Purple tomato is a true gem in the world of heirloom vegetables. Its unique appearance, rich flavor, and storied history make it a prized addition to any garden or kitchen. By embracing the cultivation and appreciation of this remarkable variety, we not only celebrate culinary diversity but also honor the traditions and heritage of the Cherokee people who first cultivated this extraordinary tomato.
