About Indigo Rose Tomato

Indigo Rose Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is a visually striking variety and the first truly purple tomato, developed by Oregon State University to maximize antioxidant content. This remarkable open-pollinated tomato produces fruits so dark they often appear nearly black, making them a stunning addition to any garden. Beyond their unique colour, Indigo Rose tomatoes offer excellent flavour, durability, and the ability to ripen reliably off the vine. Their semi-determinate habit makes them easy to manage in the garden, perfect for containers or small spaces.

Where Can You Grow Indigo Rose Tomato?
Indigo Rose Tomato thrives in Zones 3-9, preferring full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Ideal for gardens, greenhouses, containers, and patio growing.

History and Historical Uses
Indigo Rose Tomato was bred by Oregon State University's agricultural program and first introduced in the early 2010s, specifically to enhance antioxidant levels through increased anthocyanin content—the pigment responsible for its distinctive purple hue. Since its introduction, Indigo Rose has captured gardeners' interest for its unique colour, high antioxidant properties, and reliability as a productive tomato variety.

Canadian Zone Information
Zones 8-9: Start seeds indoors in early spring; transplant outdoors after frost risk; harvest mid-summer through autumn.
Zones 5-7: Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost; transplant outdoors when weather warms.
Zones 3-4: Start seeds indoors early; best grown in greenhouses or containers for extended harvest.

How to Grow and Harvest Indigo Rose Tomato

• Planting: Sow seeds 6mm (¼in) deep indoors; transplant seedlings 45-60cm (18-24in) apart outdoors after frost.
• Watering: Keep consistently moist during growth and fruit development.
• Support: Provide stakes or cages to support semi-determinate growth and heavy fruit clusters.
• Harvesting: Pick fruits once fully coloured; fruits continue ripening off the vine if picked early.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply

• Select Best Fruit: Choose ripe, healthy tomatoes from vigorous plants.
• Extract Seeds: Scoop seeds into a container, ferment for 2-3 days to remove gel coating.
• Rinse and Dry: Rinse seeds thoroughly and dry completely on paper towels or screens.
• Store: Store dried seeds in airtight containers in a cool, dark place; viable up to 5 years.

Certified Organic By
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)