Black Zebra Cherry – a cherry tomato with striking colour markings
What is Black Zebra Cherry?
Black Zebra Cherry is a distinctive cherry tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) with a marbled skin in red and green. It gives a high yield of small, intense tomatoes and suits anyone who wants to grow tomatoes at home that stand out for both flavour and looks.
Background and name
This variety is a cross between ‘Black Cherry’ and ‘Green Zebra’ – and it shows! A burst of colour in miniature, bred for flavour, productivity and decorative effect.
Appearance and growth habit
This is a tall-growing (indeterminate) variety that needs support and side-shooting. The plant gives plenty of small, rounded tomatoes with a dark red base and a green-striped pattern.
Flavour and uses
Sweet with a slightly spicy note. Lovely in salads, as a snack, in pasta dishes or on pizza. A children’s favourite – and a safe bet on the buffet table.
Ripening time, resilience and storage
Ripens early, after about 65 days. Resistant to splitting and changeable weather. The fruits keep well at room temperature for up to a week.
Pollination tips
Shake the flower trusses gently during flowering for a bigger crop.
How to grow Black Zebra Cherry
Sow indoors in March–April. Plant out after the last frost. Does well in a greenhouse or a sunny spot outdoors. Tie in and pinch out side shoots. Ripens after about 65 days.
Price is for 10 tomato seeds
Sow in seed compost and keep it lightly moist until the seeds germinate. Pot on into larger pots of nutrient-rich compost once the seedlings have their first true leaves. Harden off before planting out. Does best in a greenhouse or a warm spot outdoors. Give support, pinch out side shoots regularly and water evenly for the best results.
