More Information
| Botanical Name |
Lycopersicon lycopersicum |
| Seeds Per Pack |
25 |
| Life Cycle |
Annual |
| Min. Time to Germinate |
5 Days |
| Max. Time to Germinate |
10 Days |
| Depth to Sow Seeds |
1/4 in. |
| When to Sow |
Indoors 6-8 weeks before last spring frost |
| Growing Height |
4-6 ft. (1.2-1.8 m) |
| Plant Spacing |
24-36 in. (60-90 cm) |
| Hardiness |
N/A |
| Sun Exposure |
Full Sun |
| Danger |
Parts of plant are poisonous if ingested |
| Growth Habit |
Indeterminate |
| Soil pH Requirements |
6.1 to 6.5 (mildly acidic), 6.6 to 7.5 (neutral), 7.6 to 7.8 (mildly alkaline) |
| Days to Harvest |
70-80 |
| Propagation Methods |
From herbaceous stem cuttings, From seed; germinate in a damp paper towel, From seed; sow indoors before last frost |
| Seed Collecting |
Allow unblemished fruit to ripen; clean and dry seeds, Ferment seeds before storing |
| Open Pollinated (OP) |
Yes |
| Usage |
Fresh, salad, Fresh, slicing |
| Fruit Color |
Pink, Red |
| Fruit Size |
Medium (under one pound) |
The Zapotec Pleated Tomato, also known as Oaxacan Ribbed, is a spectacular heirloom variety with a strikingly ornamental appearance and a rich history. Originating from the dry mountains of Oaxaca, Mexico, this tomato has been cultivated for generations by the Zapotec Indians, thriving in extreme heat and drought conditions.
The fruits are large, deeply pleated, and triangular in shape, weighing between 10-16 ounces on average. Their vibrant pink-red color and scalloped edges make for stunning slices, perfect for elevating the visual appeal of any dish. The somewhat hollow interior makes them ideal for stuffing or baking, while their sweet, well-balanced flavor with low acidity ensures versatility for fresh eating, grilling, or cooking.
Prolific and indeterminate, Zapotec Pleated Tomato plants are sturdy and yield heavily, even in the harsh, dry conditions of the Southwest. The fruits have few seeds, adding to their appeal for chefs and home cooks alike. This variety is perfect for gardeners in hot climates, where its resilience and productivity truly shine.
