Organic 'Cherokee Purple' Tomato
Organic 'Cherokee Purple' Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from Gaia Seeds, a classic heirloom purple, sweet, juicy, and deeply aromatic
The ‘Cherokee Purple’ tomato is one of the world's most beloved heirloom varieties, renowned for its almost burgundy deep red flesh, deep purple skin, and above all, its exceptionally rich, sweet, complex, and slightly smoky flavor. Indeterminate, vigorous, and very productive, it produces large 12–16 oz fruits early in the season, which are meaty, juicy, and bursting with aroma, perfect for thick slices, gourmet sandwiches, and heirloom tomato platters.
Its origin is said to be associated with the Cherokee people's culture, which adds a historical and cultural dimension to this already iconic variety. In the kitchen as in the garden, ‘Cherokee Purple’ is a tomato that leaves a lasting impression with its intense taste and the beauty of its dark and mysterious hues.
Companion plants: Basil, parsley, carrot, asparagus, alliums, celery, borage, marigold, calendula, mint, sage, peppers, dill (until maturity)
Enemy plants: Potato, corn, kohlrabi, beet, fennel, peas, squash
Spread / habit: Indeterminate, vigorous and productive
Plant height: 150 to 200 cm
Quantity per packet: 25 seeds
Certification: Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features: Iconic heirloom variety, complex sweet-smoky flavor, purple fruits
Fruit color: Deep purple, burgundy red flesh
Fruit shape: Large, round to slightly flattened
Fruit size / weight: Large (12–16 oz)
Fruit type: Purple beefsteak
Texture / flesh: Juicy, sweet, deep, aromatic
Growing instructions
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before planting. Bury seeds 3–6 mm (1/8–1/4") deep in light potting soil, maintaining a temperature of 23–29 °C for rapid germination (5 to 10 days). Reduce water and nitrogen during acclimatization to obtain strong, stocky plants.
Transplant after all risk of frost. Space plants 60 to 90 cm (24–36") apart and allow 120 to 180 cm (4–6') between rows. Provide full sun, regular watering (level 3), and install sturdy staking, which is essential to support the heavy, meaty fruits.
Harvest and storage
Harvest when fruits turn a deep purple with a matte sheen and become slightly soft to the touch. To hasten harvest, pick those that have developed their first pink coloration, then let them ripen off the vine at 22 °C or higher. Store at 12–21 °C, under 95% relative humidity, to preserve their abundant juiciness.
Serving suggestions
• Exceptional in thick slices, enhanced with salt, pepper
• Delicious in burgers, sandwiches or open-faced sandwiches
• Beautiful in heirloom tomato platters, for its burgundy contrast
• Excellent in rich salsas or mild sauces, thanks to its aromatic depth
The ‘Cherokee Purple’ tomato is a pillar of horticultural heritage: intense, voluptuous, flavorful, and beautiful. An essential variety for any passionate gardener and any lover of heirloom tomatoes.
