Type: Open Pollinated / Heirloom
Growth Habit: Indeterminate
Relative Days: 75
Size: 2 – 3 oz.
Shape: Round
Color: Purple
Life Cycle: Annual (Perennial in Tropical Climates)
Characteristics:
Really Purple Tomatillo is an indeterminate heirloom variety maturing in about 75 days. Plants reach around 4 feet tall and produce heavy yields of 2–3 oz. round fruit. Known as the darkest purple tomatillo available, its fruit develops a striking deep purple color with purple-blushed husks. Both beautiful and flavorful, this variety is excellent for sauces, salsas, and fresh culinary uses.
Tomatillo (Physalis philadelphica)
Also known as the Mexican husk tomato, the tomatillo is a member of the nightshade family. It produces small, spherical fruits that are typically green or green-purple, enclosed in a papery husk.
Temperature
Prefers soil temperatures of 65°F or warmer and air temperatures of 60°F or higher to perform their best.
Soil
Choose a growing area with full sun exposure and well-drained, moderately rich soil for optimal results, though tomatillos will also grow well in average garden soil. Avoid using excessive fertilizer, as too much nitrogen can lead to abundant foliage but minimal fruit production.
Planting
To ensure successful pollination and fruit production, plant two or more tomatillo plants. Sow 4–6 seeds per inch about 4–5 weeks before transplanting, which is 1–2 weeks later than tomatoes. Transplant once the danger of frost has passed. Tomatillos ripen early and are well-suited for both northern and southern climates. They are highly prolific and continue to produce fruit until frost ends the growing season.
Spacing
Plants grow big, and if unpruned, should be spaced 2–3' apart. Note: For successful pollination and fruit set, at least two individual tomatillo plants must be present.
Harvest
Harvest when the fruit is plump and papery husk splits. Fruits store 2–4 weeks at 45°F (7°C).
Resources
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