Organic 'Black Prince' Tomato
Organic 'Black Prince' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, a rich, juicy and intensely fruity Russian garnet tomato
The 'Black Prince' tomato, originating from Russia, is one of the most prized purple varieties, valued for its beautiful flesh and rich flavor. A close relative of 'Black Crimea' but more uniform in shape, it develops magnificent mahogany-garnet fruits , the color of which intensifies in sunnier areas. Once sliced, the fruits release a tantalizing aroma and a sweet, fruity, almost wine-like flavor , with abundant juice that makes them a marvel for salads, tasting platters, and fresh recipes.
Indeterminate and reliable, it produces generous harvests of approximately 125g (5oz) fruits , perfectly round, smooth, and remarkably resistant to cracking. 'Black Prince' is one of the best introductions to purple tomatoes: easy to grow, stable, flavorful, and beautiful to look at. A classic of Russian heritage that has conquered gardens worldwide.
Companion plants : Basil, parsley, carrot, asparagus, alliums, celery, borage, marigold, calendula, mint, sage, peppers, dill (until mature)
Negative plants : Potato, corn, kohlrabi, beetroot, fennel, peas, squash
Spread/Carry : Indeterminate, vigorous
Plant height : 150 to 200 cm
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Heritage Russian tomato, mahogany-garnet color, sweet and rich flavor, not very susceptible to cracking
Fruit color : Mahogany or garnet
Fruit shape : Regularly round
Fruit size/weight : 125 g
Fruit type : Table tomato
Texture/flesh : Juicy, rich, fruity, sweet
Farming method
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost . Place the seeds 3–6 mm (1/8–1/4") deep in a light potting mix and maintain a temperature of 23–29 °C for germination in 5 to 10 days. Reduce watering and nitrogen during hardening off to produce strong, compact seedlings.
Transplant outdoors after all risk of frost has passed. Space plants 60 to 90 cm (24 to 36 inches) apart with 120 to 180 cm (4 to 6 feet) between rows. Provide full sun (level 3) and regular watering (level 3). Provide sturdy support , as the plants are vigorous and produce for a long time.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the fruit has fully developed its mahogany-garnet hue and yields slightly to pressure. To bring forward the harvest, pick when the fruit shows its first hint of color , then allow it to ripen off the vine at 22°C or higher . Store between 12 and 21°C , at 95% relative humidity, to maintain its juiciness.
Usage ideas
• Beautifully sliced in a salad , rich and juicy
• Perfect for displaying heirloom tomatoes , thanks to its elegant dark hues
• Delicious in fresh, fruity salsas
• Excellent roasted at low temperature , concentrating its sweet notes
The 'Black Prince' tomato is a treasure from Russia: fragrant, juicy, intensely fruity, and profoundly beautiful. A sure bet for gardeners who love purple tomatoes and complex flavors.
