The "
Purple Russian" variety (also known as "Ukrainian Purple") originates from Ukraine and is extremely popular thanks to its unique flavor and versatility. The fruits of this variety are elongated and plum-shaped, with a dark purple, almost black skin, and weigh between 100 and 150 grams. These tomatoes are very meaty, juicy, and have an intense, sweet, wine-like flavor, making them an ideal choice for sauces, salads, and sandwiches.
The plant is tall, which means it requires staking. The fruit ripens in 75–80 days, and the variety is highly productive, yielding abundant harvests throughout the season. “
Purple Russian” is also prized for its resistance to cracking and its ability to thrive even in cooler climates.
Thanks to its exceptional flavor and high-quality fruit, “
Purple Russian” is one of the most prized varieties among lovers of “black” tomatoes.
The history of this variety traces back to Irma Henkel of Ukraine. In 1980, she gave the seeds to a relative, Frederick Ineman of Ohio, who later made them available to the Seed Savers Exchange. The tomato is also preserved under the name Henkle Purple.
