Orange Strawberry Tomato Seeds

The Orange Strawberry tomato, also known as Orange Strawberry or Strawberry Orange, is a unique heirloom variety that is admired for its vibrant, golden-orange colour and heart-shaped fruit. It is believed to be a cross between the traditional red, strawberry-shaped tomato varieties and orange-hued varieties, combining the best traits of both. Here’s a detailed look at its history:

Origins
The Orange Strawberry tomato is thought to have originated in the United States, likely in the early to mid-20th century. Its development is often linked to gardeners and seed savers who were focused on producing heirloom varieties with unique traits, such as distinctive flavours and colours. It likely came about as part of efforts to create a tomato that offered both the sweetness and beauty of traditional varieties but with the added benefit of vibrant colour.

Appearance and Characteristics
The Orange Strawberry tomato is distinct for its heart-shaped fruit, which often resembles the shape of strawberries. The fruits are medium to large in size, typically ranging from six to sixteen ounces, and have a golden-orange hue when ripe. This colour is unusual for tomatoes, which are more commonly seen in red, yellow, or green, making the Orange Strawberry stand out in gardens and markets.

The plant itself is indeterminate, meaning it continues to grow and produce fruit throughout the growing season until frost hits. It requires support due to its lanky growth habit, and as mentioned earlier, many growers use the Florida weave method to manage these plants effectively in larger-scale production.

Taste and Use
The Orange Strawberry tomato is prized for its mild, slightly tart flavour, which is reminiscent of red tomatoes rather than the more typical sweetness of orange or yellow varieties. The flesh is solid and juicy, making it a good choice for slicing, fresh eating, and use in salads. Though it has fewer seeds than many other varieties, it’s not entirely seedless.

Popularity and Cultivation
While not as widely known as some mainstream varieties, the Orange Strawberry has a dedicated following among heirloom tomato enthusiasts, especially those who appreciate its distinctive flavour and attractive appearance. It thrives in warm climates, which is why it is well-suited for regions with long growing seasons.

Its production success can be attributed to its vigorous growth, especially when it is properly staked or caged. Many gardeners appreciate it for its unique colour, which adds visual appeal to both home gardens and market displays.

These heritage seeds are available directly from Garden Faerie Botanicals in the heart of British Columbia, Canada. The collection features heirloom and heritage seeds that are personally cultivated organically without the use of any chemicals. Emphasizing historical, rare, non-GMO seeds, this selection preserves biodiversity through open-pollination.