Are Cherokee Purple Tomatoes Considered Heirloom?
Introduction
The term 'heirloom tomato' can often be a source of confusion for many gardeners and food enthusiasts. Cherokee Purple tomatoes, a variety that has gained popularity in recent years, fall into this category. These tomatoes are renowned for their deep, rich purplish-red color and their unique tangy flavor. In this article, we will explore the history of the Cherokee Purple tomato and its classification as an heirloom variety.
Origins and History
The Cherokee Purple tomato has a fascinating origin that dates back to the 1800s. This variety was cultivated by the Cherokee Indians living in Tennessee. The seeds were passed down through generations and eventually made their way into the hands of Craig LeHoullier, a North Carolina tomato grower, in 1990. LeHoullier recognized the potential of these special seeds and began to plant and cultivate them. He then developed a seed line and offered it to a seed company.
In the years that followed, the Cherokee Purple tomato gained wider recognition. It was named and eventually offered for sale in catalogs, marking a significant milestone in its journey from a traditional Cherokee variety to a beloved heirloom tomato.
Characteristics of Heirloom Tomatoes
Understanding the difference between heirloom and hybrid tomatoes is crucial when discussing the Cherokee Purple. Heirloom tomatoes are categorically different from hybrid tomatoes in terms of breeding and propagation.
Heirloom tomatoes, like the Cherokee Purple, are open-pollinated varieties. This means that they are pollinated by natural processes, such as wind or insects, without human intervention. The seeds from these tomatoes can be saved and replanted, ensuring that they retain the same genetic characteristics as their parent plants.
In contrast, hybrid tomatoes are created through selective breeding of particular female and male parents. These hybrids are often designed to have specific desirable traits, such as disease resistance or uniform size. However, the seeds from hybrid plants do not grow true, and second-generation seedlings can show significant variability in their characteristics.
Consistency and Genetic Stability
One of the key features of heirloom tomatoes, and the Cherokee Purple in particular, is their genetic stability. The seeds of the Cherokee Purple are known to be consistent and reliable, meaning that the seedlings produced from these seeds will have almost exactly the same genetics as their parents.
This consistency is what makes heirloom tomatoes such a popular choice among gardeners and chefs. Cherokee Purple tomatoes, for instance, are prized for their deep purplish-red color, unique flavor, and rich taste. These characteristics allow the tomato to thrive in a variety of dishes, whether used in sauces, salads, or even grilled on the barbecue.
How to Recognize Heirloom Tomatoes
When shopping for heirloom Cherokee Purple tomatoes, there are a few key characteristics to look for:
Color: The skin of Cherokee Purple tomatoes should be a rich, deep purple with a slight reddish tint to it. Size: These tomatoes typically range from 6 to 8 ounces, which is quite large for a medium-sized tomato. Taste: The flavor of Cherokee Purple tomatoes is tangy and slightly sweet, with a hint of earthiness.Conclusion
It is clear that the Cherokee Purple tomato holds a special place in the world of heirloom tomatoes. Its rich history, distinctive characteristics, and genetic reliability make it a preferred choice for many home gardeners and professional chefs alike. If you're considering planting some Cherokee Purple tomatoes in your garden, you're sure to be rewarded with a bountiful harvest of these delicious and unique tomatoes.