Description

'Cherokee Purple' is said to have been given to a Tennessee family by the Cherokees over 100 years ago. This treasured tomato has just the right balance of sweetness and even a hint of smoke, making it a winner in taste tests. From summer to fall, you'll harvest more than enough 10–12 oz. tomatoes from this well-regarded heirloom variety. Provide support for vigorous vines that reach 6' or more.

Botanical Name: Solanum lycopersicum
Days to Maturity: 80 days from transplanting
Family: Solanaceae
Native: Andes
Hardiness: Frost-sensitive annual
Plant Dimensions: Vines up to 6' or longer
Variety Information: 10–12 oz., thin-skinned rose/purple fruits with brick red-colored interior. It is said that in the late 1890s, Native American Cherokees gave seeds of this tomato to someone who kept the line alive. One hundred years later, the tomato was revived, and the seeds became available to the public through retail sales.
Type: Indeterminate, slicer

When to Sow Outside: For mild climates only: 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date, and when soil temperature is at least 60°F.
When to Start Inside: RECOMMENDED. 4 to 6 weeks before transplanting. Transplant when air temperature is 45°F or warmer, usually 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date. Ideal soil temperature for germination is 70°–90°F.
Days to Emerge: 5–10 days
Seed Depth: ¼”
Seed Spacing: A group of 3 seeds every 24″–36″
Row Spacing: 36″
Thinning: When 2″ tall, thin to 1 every 24″–36″

Harvesting: 'Cherokee Purple' tomatoes are at the peak of sun-ripened deliciousness when fully colored and have a slight give when gently squeezed.

This packet yields approximately 20 plants when started inside. 25 seeds.