Thomas Jefferson was a pioneer in tomato culture; planting this relatively unfamiliar vegetable from 1809, the first summer of his retirement, until his death in 1826. He also noted that tomatoes were grown in Virginia gardens in Notes on the State of Virginia, 1782. The culture of the ribbed and scalloped-shaped Purple Calabash tomato dates to pre-Columbian Mexico. The Aztecs combined the “xitomatl” with hot peppers and ground squash seeds to make a salsa to accompany fish and meat. It is uniquely “acidic,” but with a rich and concentrated flavor. Delicious fresh, this tomato really shines in sauces and pastes.

Start seeds of this indeterminate variety indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost. Sow ¼" deep in flats or pots, keeping the soil mix moist but not soggy. When several leaves have developed, harden off the seedlings outdoors, then transplant to the garden 18"–36" apart. 85 days to maturity.

Approximately 35-40 seeds per pack.