Organic 'Riesentraube' Tomato
Organic 'Riesentraube' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, an old-fashioned, prune-shaped cherry variety, incredibly productive and deliciously sweet
The 'Riesentraube' tomato, whose name means "giant cluster" in German, is a very old heirloom variety renowned for its exceptional yield and unique charm. Indeterminate and vigorous, it produces impressive clusters laden with small , slightly pointed, prune-shaped red tomatoes, measuring approximately 2.5 cm. Their flavor is sweet, juicy, and bright, reminiscent of traditional cherries but with an added fruity depth that makes them irresistible to eat straight from the garden. It fruits generously throughout the summer, offering a continuous abundance that delights both gardeners and cooks.
This tomato is perfect for snacking, salads, kebabs, or dehydration, where its sweetness is concentrated into a veritable vegetable candy. Its indeterminate growth habit requires good support, but rewards the effort with a steady stream of flavorful fruit.
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 : Small, prune-shaped fruits, massive production, very sweet and juicy
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 to ensure rapid germination, usually in 5 to 10 days . Reduce watering and nitrogen during hardening off to produce robust seedlings well-suited to vigorous growth.
Transplant when the risk of frost has passed. Space plants 60 to 90 cm (24 to 36 inches) apart and maintain 120 to 180 cm (4 to 6 feet) between rows. Provide full sun (level 3) and regular watering (watering level 3) . Sturdy staking is essential to support the weight of the heavy grape clusters.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the small red berries have fully developed their color and shine. To advance the harvest, pick those showing their first signs of color , then let them ripen off the vine at 22°C or higher . Store between 12 and 21°C with 95% relative humidity to preserve their sweetness and texture.
Usage ideas
• Perfect for snacking on fresh , straight from the garden
• Delicious in colorful salads or as a topping for pizzas and summer dishes
• Excellent on kebabs thanks to its juicy texture
• Ideal for dehydration , concentrating its sweetness into real treats
The 'Riesentraube' tomato is a celebration of generosity and sweetness: an old variety that shines with its abundance, unique charm, and vibrant flavor. A must-have for any gardener seeking an authentic, productive, and unforgettable heirloom cherry.
