Organic 'Ozark Sunrise' Tomato
Organic 'Ozark Sunrise' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, a vibrant purple beauty whose colors intensify when chilled
The 'Ozark Sunrise' tomato is a spectacular heirloom variety, famous for its deep purple hues rich in anthocyanins, powerful natural antioxidants that give it its unique appearance. Indeterminate and vigorous, it produces medium-sized fruit whose already remarkable color intensifies even further in cooler temperatures , offering an absolutely mesmerizing purple-pink gradient. Even the plant itself displays touches of purple, enhancing its decorative appeal in the vegetable garden. A mid-season variety, it is often described as one of the most eye-catching tomatoes you can grow.
On the palate, 'Ozark Sunrise' impresses with a balanced, sweet, slightly fruity flavor and a lively freshness that lends itself equally well to fresh eating, vibrant salads, and artistic preparations. Its rich pigmentation and elegant form make it an ideal variety for gardeners seeking a cultivar that is as nutritious as it is spectacular.
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 fruits rich in anthocyanins, colors intensified when fresh, very decorative, mid-season
Farming method
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Sow seeds 3–6 mm (1/8–1/4") deep in a light potting mix and maintain a temperature of 23–29°C until germination, which takes approximately 5 to 10 days . Reduce watering and nitrogen during hardening-off to produce strong seedlings.
Transplant outdoors once 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) , regular watering (watering level 3) , and install sturdy supports to support the indeterminate structure and abundant fruit.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the fruit has fully developed its characteristic purple-pink color. To advance the harvest, pick those that have reached their first color , then let them ripen off the vine at 22°C or above . Store them between 12 and 21°C , with a relative humidity of 95% , to preserve their texture and natural pigments.
Usage ideas
• Stunning in colorful salads , where its vibrant purple makes a statement
• Delicious sliced fresh , its sweet and fruity flesh shines naturally
• Perfect for artistic plates , thanks to its intense colors
• Interesting in grilled dishes , where its flavor gains depth
The 'Ozark Sunrise' tomato is a purple marvel of the vegetable garden: nutritious, elegant, abundant, and captivating. A heirloom variety that combines beauty and flavor, ideal for those who want to grow a truly spectacular tomato.
