Djena Lee’s Golden, more commonly known as “Djena Lee’s Golden Girl,” produces medium-sized, fleshy fruits with an intense, golden-yellow color. Its flavor combines sweetness with a distinct, pleasant tart note. It matures in about 80 days after transplanting. This tall plant requires a stake or support.
Behind this variety is Djena Lee, one of the women recognized for her breeding work in American gardens during the first half of the 20th century. Seed Savers Exchange describes her ten consecutive victories in the taste competition at fairs in Chicago in the 1920s and 1930s. The variety has also been included in Slow Food’s Ark of Taste program, which preserves culinary heritage.
