Solanum lycopersicum Seeds | Brandywine Tomato
LATIN NAME: Solanum lycopersicum
COMMON NAME: Brandywine Tomato
Plant Profile
Brandywine Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is a famous heirloom beefsteak tomato, a tender annual of the nightshade family (Solanaceae) descended from South American ancestors domesticated in Mesoamerica. It is a potato-leaved, indeterminate vine producing very large, pink-red, thin-skinned fruits widely considered among the best-flavoured of all tomatoes. Heirloom strains like this one are valued by seed savers for their stable, true-breeding character.
Science & Biotechnology
Botanists studying the Solanum group regularly include Solanum lycopersicum in comparative work, and the species also appears in horticultural trials aimed at gardeners and growers. Its potato-leaf foliage trait has also drawn genetic research interest examining inheritance of this less common leaf form within wider cultivated tomato species. In practice, its long garden history means the grower inherits a plant of known and dependable habits.
Uses & Benefits
Brandywine Tomato works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. As an open-pollinated heirloom, gardeners can save seed from their own fruit each year to grow true to type in future seasons. Getting it going is easy; keeping it going is easier still.
The nightshade genus feeds the world, potato, tomato, eggplant, and arms it too: goji is its tonic member, while many ornamentals carry toxic solanine-type alkaloids, so identification is everything in this genus.
Growing from Seed
Brandywine Tomato grows readily from seed. Sow seed into a loose, well-drained mix and keep it warm and consistently moist, since tomato seed does best with steady warmth. Bright light suits young seedlings well, and once frost danger has passed, this vigorous indeterminate variety should be given a sturdy stake or cage to support its extended growing and fruiting season. Sow on the surface of a gritty, well-drained mix, cover lightly with fine compost, and maintain gentle, even moisture in a sunny position. Move strong seedlings into individual pots, keep them in good light, and set them out when the weather and their size agree.
Our Take
The medicinal tradition behind this species, outlined above, is a large part of its interest. Part of this plant’s appeal is the long practical history summarized above. Minor errors in timing or watering rarely cost the grower the crop.
Related Reading
Gardeners who grow Brandywine Tomato often pair it with these related subjects: