Brandywine Black – deep flavour in a classic American beefsteak tomato
What is Brandywine Black?
Brandywine Black is a richly flavoured beefsteak tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) that combines the best of the classic Brandywine line with a dark, elegant colour. A top choice if you want to grow tomatoes from seed with extra depth of flavour.
Background and name
The variety is a further development of the famous American Brandywine family, which dates back to the late 1800s. The Black version is newer but shares the same soft, smooth texture and meaty shape.
Appearance and growth habit
Brandywine Black is a tall-growing (indeterminate) variety whose side shoots need pinching out. The plant produces large, flattened-round tomatoes weighing up to 500 grams, in a dark purple-red with green tops.
Flavour and uses
The flavour is complex, sweet and full-bodied – a real top choice for tomato lovers. Slices of Brandywine Black lift any salad or sandwich to gourmet level.
Ripening time, resilience and storage
Ripens after about 80 days. Does best in a greenhouse. Sensitive to overwatering, but copes well with high heat. Best eaten straight after harvest.
Pollination tips
Help pollination in a greenhouse by shaking the flower trusses.
How to grow Brandywine Black
Sow indoors in March–April. Pot on and plant out in a greenhouse once the risk of frost has passed. Pinch out side shoots regularly and tie in. Ripens after about 80 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.
