Cherokee Purple Tomato
A pre-1890 heirloom passed down by the Cherokee people of Tennessee, Cherokee Purple is one of the most distinctive and flavorful tomatoes you can grow. Its dusky rose-purple skin and smoky, rich flavor make it instantly recognizable and deeply memorable — a tomato that changes how you think about what a tomato can taste like.
Cherokee Purple has a complex, smoky-sweet flavor with a rich, almost savory depth that sets it apart from bright red tomatoes. There's a subtle earthiness and a hint of saltiness that makes each bite deeply satisfying — the flavor is intense and lingering.
The flesh is dense and meaty with a deep, dark interior that ranges from purple to brick-red. The skin is thin and tender. Fruits are large and slightly flattened, often with green shoulders that remain even when fully ripe — this is normal, not a sign of under-ripeness.
Peak season is mid to late summer — late July through September. Cherokee Purple takes about 80 days to mature and produces heavily in warm weather. Available at farmers' markets and from specialty growers.
Look for fruits that are firm but yield slightly, with a deep dusky purple-rose color. Green shoulders are normal. Avoid any with soft spots. The fruit should feel heavy for its size — an indication of the juicy, dense interior.
Sliced Fresh
The smoky, rich flavor is best experienced raw — thick slices with salt and olive oil are sublime.
Caprese
The dark purple color creates a stunning visual contrast with white mozzarella and green basil.
Sandwiches
Thick slices on a BLT or simple tomato sandwich — the smoky depth adds a whole new dimension.
Tomato Salad
Combine with other colorful heirlooms for a visually striking and flavor-complex salad.
Like all heirlooms, Cherokee Purple is fragile. Use within 2–3 days of purchase. Store at room temperature, stem-side down. Never refrigerate — the complex flavor compounds are destroyed by cold.