Organic 'Black Zebra' Tomato

'Black Zebra' organic tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, a complex, vigorous and resistant tomato with purple-mahogany stripes

The 'Black Zebra' tomato is a remarkable heirloom variety, combining the elegance of the Green Zebra with the aromatic depth of black tomatoes. Small to medium in size (4–5 cm), perfectly round, it boasts a mahogany-purple skin streaked with dark green , offering a striking visual contrast. Its dense, velvety mahogany flesh reveals a rich, complex, slightly smoky flavor with a subtle sweetness that distinguishes the finest black varieties.

Indeterminate, robust, and very vigorous, 'Black Zebra' is known for its abundant production , long and staggered ripening times , and excellent resistance to disease and drought . It is as reliable as it is artistic: a colorful, flavorful tomato that is deeply expressive on the plate.

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 : Purple-mahogany stripes, rich and smoky flavor, very vigorous, increased resistance to disease and drought

Fruit color : Purple-mahogany with dark green streaks
Fruit shape : Round
Fruit size/weight : Small to medium (4–5 cm)
Fruit type : Striped table tomato
Texture/flesh : Densely mahogany, juicy, complex and slightly smoky flavor

Farming method

Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before planting out . Plant the seeds 3–6 mm deep in a light potting mix, then maintain a temperature of 23–29°C to encourage germination in 5 to 10 days . During hardening off, reduce watering and nitrogen application to produce robust seedlings.

Transplant into the garden when there is no longer any risk of frost. Space plants 60 to 90 cm apart, with 120 to 180 cm between rows. Provide full sun (level 3) and regular watering (level 3) . Sturdy staking is necessary to support vigorous growth and long fruiting periods.

Harvesting and preservation

Harvest when the purple-mahogany color is fully developed and the dark green streaks remain distinct. To advance the harvest, pick the fruit that has reached its first color and then allow it to ripen off the vine at 22°C or above . Store between 12–21°C , in 95% relative humidity, to maintain its firmness and juiciness.

Usage ideas

• Perfect for artistic salads , thanks to its spectacular ridges
• Delicious sliced ​​fresh , with its rich and slightly smoky flavor
• Superb for trays of heirloom tomatoes , adding contrast and complexity
• Excellent when cooked gently , where its deep notes become more concentrated

The 'Black Zebra' tomato is a visual and gustatory treasure: resistant, abundant, colorful, and intensely flavorful. A heritage variety that combines handcrafted beauty with horticultural performance.