Solanum lycopersicum ( Black Russian ) is a heirloom variety of tomato that originated from Russia. Being from a cooler climate it copes a bit better with slightly colder weather and shorter seasons than many other varieties. Its blackish skin helps to absorb heat and fruit is harvestable at around 90-120 days.
The Black Russian is believed to be dated back to the 19th century but little else is recorded about its parentage & history other than it was possibly developed by monks. The fruit of this variety is medium in size with an average weight of 200-300gms / 7-10 ounces. Fruit gets darker in colour with maturity, and it seems the more sun the plant gets the darker the skin, which is not jet black but more of a dark brown-black colour. Some describe the fruit as sweet; it certainly does have a sweetness to it; as well as a mild smoky, earthy flavour.
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Growth
The Black Russian Tomato plant is a medium growing plant that will reach up to approximately 1.5m (5 feet) high and 70cm in width. This variety is indeterminate & climbing one, it is best to provide some lattice, stakes or other form of support and train/tie the plant as it grows. 1 plant can produce 5-14kg of fruit.
Long, hot summers make this cooler climate tomato vulnerable to disease, for this reason it is important (as with most tomato varieties) to make sure plenty of fresh air flows through the branches to avoid pests and disease.
Note: Germination instructions can be found in the ‘Germination Instructions Tab’ below. Upon purchase you will receive these detailed instructions via email so that you have a permanent record.
FAMILY:
Solanaceae
CLIMATE:
All climates
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
10°C to 35°C / 50 to 95°F
SOIL TYPE:
Well drained, compost rich, loamy, or sandy.
LOCATION:
Full Sun. Will tolerate some afternoon shade but full sun for at least 8 hours a day preferred,
HEIGHT:
Up to 1.5 metres (5 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 70 centimetres (2.3 feet)
pH:
6.0-6.7
GROWTH TYPE:
Annual, indeterminate, climber.
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Medium.
POLLINATION:
Self-pollinating. Bees and insects can help.
MATURITY:
90-120 days.
GERMINATION RATES:
81-92%
GERMINATION TIME:
9-14 days in ideal temperatures.
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Easy in the right climate.
SEEDS PER GRAM:
Approximately 380
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
No
WEED POTENTIAL:
No
EDIBLE:
Yes
SEED STORAGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) up to 5 years.
FACTS ABOUT SOLANUM LYCOPERSICUM (Black Russian Tomato)
Black Russian tomatoes have been reported as growing as heavy as 400gms.
Black Tomatoes are higher in anthocyanin content/antioxidant properties than red tomatoes.
The foliage of tomato plants can be toxic to humans and some pets.
Tomatoes are full of nutritional goodness like Vitamin C, K1, Potassium, Folate & Beta Carotene. For more information about tomatoes and your health, click here.
