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Overview
Solanum lycopersicum 'Black Krim' is a distinctive heirloom indeterminate tomato cultivar renowned for its exceptional flavor and striking appearance. This vigorous plant produces large, beefsteak-type fruits that typically weigh 8-12 ounces each, with some specimens reaching up to one pound. The tomatoes display a remarkable deep burgundy to brownish-black skin with subtle green shoulders, while the interior reveals a rich, dark red flesh with complex flavor notes described as smoky, sweet, and intensely tomato-forward.
The plant exhibits the characteristic growth habit of indeterminate tomatoes, reaching heights of 6-8 feet when properly supported. The foliage consists of compound leaves with serrated leaflets typical of the species, displaying a medium to dark green coloration. Small, bright yellow five-petaled flowers appear in clusters throughout the growing season, eventually developing into the prized dark fruits. Solanum lycopersicum 'Black Krim' originated in the Crimean Peninsula and represents one of the most sought-after dark tomato varieties among gardeners and chefs alike for its exceptional culinary qualities and unique appearance.
Native Range
Solanum lycopersicum as a species is native to western South America, specifically the Andes mountains of Peru, Ecuador, and northern Chile, where wild relatives still grow today. The 'Black Krim' cultivar itself originated from the Crimean Peninsula region of Ukraine, where it was developed through traditional selection methods by local gardeners and has been cultivated for generations.Suggested Uses
Solanum lycopersicum 'Black Krim' works exceptionally well as a centerpiece variety in vegetable gardens, particularly in heirloom or specialty tomato collections. This cultivar is excellent for fresh eating, slicing for gourmet sandwiches and burgers, and culinary applications where complex tomato flavor is desired. The striking dark appearance makes it valuable for farmers markets and specialty crop production, commanding premium prices. Suitable for container growing in large containers (minimum 20 gallons) with adequate support, and ideal for greenhouse cultivation in shorter growing seasons. Popular choice for home gardeners seeking unique varieties and chefs looking for distinctive ingredients.How to Identify
Growing Conditions
Sun Requirements
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Water & Climate
Frost Tolerance
Time to Maturity
69-90 days from transplant
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Solanum lycopersicum 'Black Krim' requires consistent care throughout the growing season for optimal fruit production. Provide deep, regular watering at the soil level to maintain even moisture while avoiding wetting the foliage, which can promote disease. Water deeply 1-2 times per week, providing approximately 1-2 inches of water weekly. Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting, then switch to a lower nitrogen formula once flowering begins to encourage fruit development rather than excessive vegetative growth. Install sturdy supports such as cages or stakes early in the season, as this indeterminate variety will require substantial support for its 6-8 foot height. Mulch around plants with 2-3 inches of organic matter to retain moisture and suppress weeds, and provide adequate air circulation between plants to prevent fungal diseases.Pruning
Prune Solanum lycopersicum 'Black Krim' by removing suckers that develop in the leaf axils throughout the growing season to maintain plant vigor and fruit quality. These suckers should be pinched off when they are 2-4 inches long, typically on a weekly basis. Remove lower leaves that touch the ground or show signs of disease, and thin excess foliage to improve air circulation around developing fruit clusters. As an indeterminate variety, continue removing suckers weekly and consider topping the plant 4-6 weeks before the first expected frost to encourage ripening of existing fruits. Remove any diseased, yellowing, or damaged foliage promptly to prevent spread of pathogens and maintain plant health.Pruning Schedule
J
F
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M
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J
A
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D
summer
Maintenance Level
highContainer Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 20 gallons
⚠️ Toxicity Warning
Solanum lycopersicum 'Black Krim' fruits are safe for human consumption when fully ripe and red inside. However, green unripe tomatoes, leaves, stems, and roots contain solanine and other glycoalkaloids that can be toxic if consumed in large quantities, causing gastrointestinal upset. Keep pets away from tomato plants, as the foliage can cause gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, and other symptoms in dogs and cats. Always harvest and consume only fully mature, ripe fruits.Planting Guide
Planting Methods & Timing
Planting Method
transplant
Indoor Start
6 weeks before last frost
Direct Sow Timing
not recommended for direct sowing
Days to Maturity
69–90 days
Plant Spacing
24 inches