Piennolo Giallo del Vesuvio Tomato Seeds

Solanum lycopersicum This rare heirloom variety is from the fertile volcanic soils of Mount Vesuvius in southern Italy. The small, oval or pear-shaped fruits are golden yellow and has been cultivated for centuries in the Vesuvio region. Their balanced taste makes them highly prized in Italian cuisine, especially for sauces, salads, and gourmet dishes.

One characteristic of Piennolo del Vesuvio Giallo tomatoes is their remarkable longevity. When harvested in clusters and hung in bunches—a traditional method called “piennolo”, they can be stored for months in a cool, dry place. Their flavour will intensify over time. making them very valuable when the garden is asleep. This ability to store and preserve their sweetness for extended periods makes them an ideal tomato for winter use. They will hang up to 9 months and be available for fresh eating under the right conditions!

These tomatoes are indeterminate, meaning they continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the season. It is a good idea to stake or cage for support. Although, I just grow them and let them spread on the ground with sticks and straw underneath.

Theis varieties volcanic heritage makes them relatively hardy, able to withstand cooler temperatures. Their rarity outside of Italy, particularly in Canada, adds to their allure.

The Piennolo del Vesuvio Giallo tomato’s combination of long shelf life, rich flavour, and culinary versatility makes it a highly desirable variety for those who value food security.

It is an uncommon yellow “winter tomato” variety classified as a ramallet. Ramallet tomatoes, as they are known in Spain, or winter tomatoes and piennolo tomatoes in Italy, are a unique class of Mediterranean heirloom tomatoes that grow in clusters or tresses. At the end of the season, these fruit-laden tresses are strung up and stored at room temperature, with both ripe and unripe fruits ripening gradually over time.

These tomatoes are distinguished by their thicker skins, which help preserve them and intensify their flavour as they dry off the vine. They’re perfect for fresh eating, making sundried tomatoes, or preparing rich sauces.

If you value self-sufficiency and delicious, seasonal eating, Ramallet tomatoes are an excellent choice. They’re particularly well-suited to short growing seasons and long winters, making them a must-have for gardeners looking to enjoy homegrown produce year-round.

These rare heirloom tomato seeds are sourced directly from Garden Faerie Botanicals, located in the heart of British Columbia, Canada. The collection includes endangered heritage varieties, all organically grown without chemicals.