The cherokee purple tomato plant is known for its deep reddish-purple skin and greenish shoulders, giving it an almost smoky appearance on the vine. This tomato variety dates back to at least the late 1800s and is believed to have been shared by the Cherokee people. Unlike typical grocery store tomatoes, the cherokee purple tomato plant produces fruit with a rich, almost wine-like flavor that chefs love.

Gardeners say the cherokee purple tomato plant thrives best in full sun with well-drained soil and a sturdy support system. Its fruit may look rough around the edges, but it’s often the favorite in taste tests for its complex, sweet-savory balance. The cherokee purple tomato plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and needs regular pruning to stay manageable.

It’s an indeterminate plant, which means it keeps growing and producing tomatoes all season long until frost. People love using cherokee purple tomatoes in sandwiches because they’re juicy but not too watery. Its flesh is more pink than purple inside, with a soft texture that melts in your mouth.

The skin is a bit thin, so the fruit bruises easily, but that’s the tradeoff for amazing flavor. This heirloom tomato isn't just a pretty face — it’s loaded with antioxidants and vitamin C. Many growers start cherokee purple tomato plant seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.

The variety was rediscovered in the 1990s by seed saver Craig LeHoullier, who helped bring it back into popularity. Its unique look makes it a great conversation starter at farmer’s markets or community gardens. Cherokee purple tomatoes often weigh around 10-12 ounces, but some can grow even larger.

If you're trying to avoid bland tomatoes, the cherokee purple tomato plant is a top choice for homegrown flavor. It pairs beautifully with mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil in a fresh Caprese salad. Its slightly acidic tang makes it perfect for canning sauces and salsas.

Many gardeners recommend staking or caging the cherokee purple tomato plant early, as it can get top-heavy fast. You’ll often find this variety in heirloom seed collections because of its historic and cultural value. Its growth habit can get wild, so pruning lower branches helps keep airflow and reduce disease.

A common pest for this plant is the tomato hornworm — a big green caterpillar that loves its juicy leaves. Despite its delicate skin, the cherokee purple tomato plant holds up well in sandwiches and burgers. It’s a slow starter in spring but really takes off once summer heat kicks in.

People often describe its flavor as “smoky” or “earthy,” which sets it apart from bright red tomatoes. Each tomato tends to have irregular shapes, sometimes looking almost heart-like. It performs best when watered consistently — uneven watering can cause cracking.

Companion plants like basil or marigold can help protect the cherokee purple tomato plant from pests. The dark pigment in its skin comes from anthocyanins, which are linked to heart health. If you love tomato sandwiches, this variety’s thick slices and bold taste are a game-changer.

The cherokee purple tomato plant can be grown in large containers, as long as they’re at least 5 gallons. Seedlings love warm soil, so many gardeners use black plastic mulch to heat the ground. It’s one of the most photographed heirloom tomatoes, thanks to its striking color and size.

These tomatoes may crack after heavy rain, so harvesting before storms is a smart move. Saving seeds from a healthy plant helps preserve the heirloom traits for the next season. Some growers use calcium supplements to help prevent blossom end rot.

When ripe, they often still have a bit of green on the shoulders — that’s totally normal. It’s a slow-growing variety, but the flavor payoff is absolutely worth the wait. You’ll need to check the undersides of the fruit for ripeness since the color can be misleading.

Cherokee purple tomato plant flowers are yellow and star-shaped, typical of most tomato plants. To save seeds, just scoop out the pulp, ferment it for a few days, then rinse and dry. This tomato is a showstopper at summer picnics when served sliced with a dash of sea salt.

Growing this tomato can be a great science project for kids learning about plant cycles. Its fruits are known to ripen unevenly, so regular harvesting is key. Tomato cages work better than stakes if you want a hands-off approach to support.

The cherokee purple tomato plant was included in the Slow Food USA Ark of Taste for its heritage value. Warm, sunny locations help bring out the richest color and flavor in the fruit. Slicing into one reveals a rainbow of pink, red, and green — beautiful on the plate.

Its deep color intensifies when grown in slightly acidic soil. This plant can produce fruit all the way into early fall, depending on your climate. Cherokee purple tomatoes make fantastic gifts for foodie friends or garden lovers.

The flavor gets even better when the tomatoes are allowed to ripen fully on the vine. Pinching off some early blossoms helps the plant put more energy into stronger growth. Its seeds are easy to swap or share in heirloom gardening communities.

The cherokee purple tomato plant doesn't always win beauty contests — but it usually wins taste tests. Because it’s open-pollinated, you can save seeds and expect true-to-type plants next season. This variety is popular among organic gardeners because it needs fewer chemical treatments.

Planting near nasturtiums or garlic can naturally help deter harmful insects. Its unusual look adds charm and rustic appeal to backyard gardens. There’s something truly satisfying about growing such a historic and flavorful variety yourself.