Black Cherry is a popular heirloom cherry tomato known for its beautiful dusky purple-brown colour and rich, complex flavour. The round, bite-sized fruits have a deep mahogany-to-black appearance when fully ripe, with a juicy texture and a delicious balance of sweetness and acidity. Black Cherry produces abundant clusters of fruit, making it an excellent choice for fresh eating, snacking, salads, and summer grazing.
The plants are vigorous and productive throughout the growing season. Fruits develop from green to dark purple-brown as they ripen and are best harvested when fully coloured and slightly soft. With its long harvest season and exceptional flavour, Black Cherry is a favourite among gardeners looking for a productive cherry tomato with an unusual colour.
Type: Cherry, Heirloom Fruit: 1 oz (28 g), round; dusky purple-brown to mahogany-black when ripe Flavour: Rich, sweet, complex and well-balanced Flesh: Juicy and tender with a rich interior Uses: Fresh eating, snacking, salads and garnishing Growth Habit: Indeterminate, vigorous Maturity: Approximately 65–75 days Light: Full Sun Germination: 5–10 days Ideal Germination Temperature: 21–29°C (70–85°F) Seed Depth: 1/8–1/4 inch (3–6 mm) Plant Spacing: 24–36 inches (60–90 cm) Frost Hardiness: Not frost hardy Botanical Name:Solanum lycopersicum Pollination: Open-pollinated
Starting & Growing Tips
Start seeds indoors approximately 6–8 weeks before the last spring frost. Sow 1/8–1/4 inch deep and keep the growing medium warm and evenly moist. A heat mat can help maintain the warm soil temperatures tomatoes need for reliable germination.
Transplant outdoors only after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Choose a location with full sun and fertile, well-draining soil. Because Black Cherry is an indeterminate variety with vigorous growth, provide a sturdy cage, trellis, or stake for support. Regular harvesting encourages continued fruit production throughout the season.
Harvest when the fruits have developed their characteristic dark mahogany-purple colour and have softened slightly. For the best flavour, allow them to ripen fully on the plant.
