An old American tomato variety producing large purple fruits, distinguished by its dense, juicy flesh and rich, aromatic flavour.

What makes Cherokee Purple remarkable is the depth of its flavour and its lovely balance between sweetness and acidity. Its mauve fruits, with dusty rose undertones and often green shoulders, have dense, juicy flesh.  When tasted, it reveals moderate sweetness, noticeable yet mild acidity, and deep aromas accompanied by a subtle smoky note. A distinctive tomato, as interesting for its flavour profile as for its unique appearance.

Originally from Tennessee, USA, this heirloom variety has a particularly interesting history. In 1990, John D. Green passed seeds on to Craig LeHoullier, explaining that they came from a variety grown by his family for several generations, after having been received from a Cherokee family. Craig LeHoullier named it Cherokee Purple and helped bring it to wider recognition. This story, passed down orally, is part of the variety's history, although its exact origins have not been historically established.

Every variety has its own personality. The best tomato isn’t the one that everyone likes, but the one that finds its place in your garden, your kitchen, and your habits.

You can share its seeds within your community: our seeds are reproducible.

Cultivate your preferences.

Flavor Profile

Balanced & aromatic

Sweet: ●●●○○ | Tangy: ●●○○○ | Aromatic: ●●●●○

Intensity: moderate to pronounced | Texture: dense and juicy

Each flavor profile is based on my own observations in the garden and during tasting. The seeds come from tomatoes selected in my garden.

Technical Information

Use: Fresh eating, salads and sandwiches
Type: Beefsteak
Colour: Purple - dusty pink, often with green shoulders
Size: Large
Weight: Approximately 250 to 450 g
Shape: Round to flattened, sometimes slightly ribbed
Flesh: Dense, juicy and dark red
Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum
Maturity: Approximately 80 days
Origin: Tennessee, USA
Growth habit: Indeterminate
Height: 200 cm and taller

Sowing: 5 mm deep, 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost
Hardening off: Gradually before transplanting
Temperature: 24 to 32 °C for germination, then 16 to 20 °C

Full sun | ↕ Indeterminate 200 cm and taller | ↔ 50–60 cm | Sturdy stake

Discover its sisters in flavor or use among the recommended varieties.