Organic 'Violet Jasper' Tomato
Organic 'Violet Jasper' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, a heritage Chinese cherry with jewel-like reflections
The 'Violet Jasper' tomato, also known by its traditional Chinese name Tzi Bi U , is a rare heirloom variety prized for its unique appearance. Its small, 1- to 3-ounce fruits are striped with green and purple-red, which, when ripe, take on an almost mystical opalescence, reminiscent of fragments of purple jasper. Their flavor is equally remarkable: a sweet, mild, and slightly tart combination that makes it an irresistible tasting tomato. Highly productive, this variety is especially valued by market gardeners for its abundance and visual appeal.
The vigorous, sprawling plants can reach nearly 2 meters (6') in height and require a sturdy support system. An indeterminate variety, it produces continuously until the first frosts.
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 and sprawling
Plant height : Up to 180 cm (6′)
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Unique ribbed fruit, a rare Chinese heirloom variety, very high yield, exceptional beauty
Farming method
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Place the seeds 3 to 6 mm (1/8 to 1/4") deep in a light potting mix and keep them between 23 and 29°C for rapid germination (5 to 10 days). Slightly reduce watering and nitrogen application during hardening-off to produce more robust seedlings.
Transplant when nighttime temperatures exceed 10°C (50°F), spacing plants 60-90 cm (24-36") apart in rows 120-180 cm (4-6') apart. Provide full sun (level 3) and consistent watering (watering level 3). The long, indeterminate stems require sturdy staking.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the purple-green color is fully developed and the fruits display their distinctive opalescence. Alternatively, you can pick when a first hint of color appears and allow them to ripen off the vine at 22°C or higher. Store the tomatoes in a temperate environment between 12 and 21°C, at a relative humidity of approximately 95%.
Usage ideas
• Perfect in heirloom tomato mixes for a dramatic visual contrast
• Delicious raw, its sweet and tangy flavor makes it ideal for salads
• Excellent as an appetizer or on cherry tomato skewers
• Beautiful for decorating dishes thanks to its jasper patterns
• Interesting for resale at farmers' markets due to its rarity and unique appeal
The 'Violet Jasper' tomato is a true gem of the vegetable garden: beautiful, rare, productive, and delicious. An exceptional variety for passionate gardeners seeking extraordinary colors and flavors.
