Solanum lycopercicum.

Indigo Rose Tomato 

Annual, Open-pollinated.

Indeterminate, regular leaf foliage. 

Seed folklore has it this variety was developed at Oregon State University.  Indigo Rose Tomato is a very unique variety that is extremely high in anthocyanin; a powerful anti-oxidant that give it its dark red-black indigo colour. The fruit is ready to harvest when there is the slightest red tinge on the side not exposed to the sun (the purple pigment of anthocyanin is produced only in the areas exposed to sunlight).

The plant produces clusters of 1-2 ounce purple fruit, with smooth beautiful skin. Specialty Produce captured the Indigo Rose flavour perfectly : “ its flesh is both meaty and succulent, as its seeds burst in the mouth with acidity and the flesh counters with sweetness and depth.” Reading this, I recalled biting into an Indigo Rose and remembering this exact experience. 

This variety is known to show resistance to disease and blight. 

Tomatoes are naturally quite drought tolerant, and yields are better when grown in the ground because their root systems are adventurous and incredibly resilient.

Days to maturity: 75 days from transplant.

25 seeds minimum per pack. 

Seed starting:

In our climate tomatoes like a head start - start seeds 6-8 weeks before the last frost (depending on your region). Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, keeping the soil warm and moist. Once the first true leaves appear, plant up into plug trays. Plant outside in full sun once all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Mulch with straw or other organic matter! 

Tomatoes will do well staked.  

Companion plants: basil, nasturtium, carrots, calendula.