Solanum lycopersicum 'Heatmaster', Heatmaster Tomato
Annuals

Solanum lycopersicum 'Heatmaster'

Heatmaster Tomato

UnknownSouth America

At a Glance

Typeannual
Habitcompact bushy
Foliagedeciduous
Height3-4 feet
Width2-3 feet

Growing Zones

USDA Hardiness Zones

9a - 11b
Zone 9a
Zone 9b
Zone 10a
Zone 10b
Zone 11a
Zone 11b
These zones indicate the coldest temperatures this plant can typically survive.
Frost Tolerancetender

Key Features

Attracts Pollinators
Attracts Butterflies
Deer Resistant
Container Friendly
Maintenancelow

Overview

Solanum lycopersicum 'Heatmaster' is a determinate tomato cultivar specifically bred for exceptional heat tolerance and reliable production in high-temperature climates. This compact, bushy plant typically reaches 3-4 feet in height with a sturdy, well-branched structure and dense foliage coverage. The compound leaves are characteristic of tomatoes, composed of dark green, deeply serrated leaflets that maintain their vigor even under extreme heat stress. Small, bright yellow five-petaled flowers appear in clusters along the stems throughout the growing season, followed by medium-sized, round to slightly flattened fruits that ripen to a rich red color. Each fruit typically weighs 6-8 ounces and maintains excellent flavor, texture, and nutritional quality even when temperatures exceed 90°F. Solanum lycopersicum 'Heatmaster' is distinguished from standard tomato varieties by its superior ability to set fruit and continue production during heat waves that typically cause flower drop and reduced yields in other cultivars, making it an invaluable choice for gardeners in hot climate regions.

Native Range

Solanum lycopersicum originates from the western slopes of the Andes Mountains in South America, particularly in present-day Peru, Ecuador, and northern Chile. Wild tomato species were first domesticated by indigenous peoples in these highland regions before being cultivated and spread northward through Central America and Mexico by pre-Columbian civilizations.

Suggested Uses

Solanum lycopersicum 'Heatmaster' excels in vegetable gardens, raised beds, and large containers in hot climate regions where other tomato varieties struggle. Ideal for fresh eating, slicing for sandwiches and salads, canning, and cooking applications. Excellent choice for market gardeners and home gardeners in desert regions, hot humid climates, and areas with consistently high summer temperatures. Perfect for greenhouse production in extreme climates and for extending the growing season in challenging conditions.

How to Identify

Solanum lycopersicum 'Heatmaster' can be identified by its compact, determinate growth habit forming a bushy plant 3-4 feet tall with sturdy stems and dense branching. The compound leaves are dark green with deeply serrated, pointed leaflets typical of tomatoes, while small yellow flowers with five petals appear in clusters along the branches. The key identifying feature is the plant's exceptional heat tolerance, continuing to produce flowers and set fruit when temperatures consistently exceed 90°F, conditions that cause most other tomato varieties to drop flowers and cease production. The medium-sized red fruits maintain their quality and flavor even under extreme heat stress.

Appearance

Size & Dimensions

Height3' - 4'
Width/Spread2' - 3'

Colors

Flower Colors

yellow

Foliage Colors

green

Bloom Information

Bloom Period

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
SummerFall
continuously from early summer through fall in warm climates

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

bright yellow

Foliage Description

dark green

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

Full Sun
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight

Soil Requirements

pH Range6.0 - 7.0(Neutral)
357912
Soil Types
loam
Drainage
well drained

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate to high

Frost Tolerance

tender

Time to Maturity

75-85 days from transplant

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Solanum lycopersicum 'Heatmaster' requires full sun exposure and well-draining, fertile soil enriched with organic matter and compost. Water deeply and consistently, providing 1-2 inches per week through drip irrigation or soaker hoses to avoid wetting foliage and prevent disease. Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting, then switch to a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer once flowering begins to encourage fruit development rather than excessive foliage growth. Mulch heavily around plants with organic material to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and moderate soil temperature fluctuations. Install sturdy cages or stakes at planting time to support the plant as fruits develop, though this determinate variety requires less intensive support than indeterminate types.

Pruning

Solanum lycopersicum 'Heatmaster' requires minimal pruning due to its determinate growth pattern and compact habit. Remove suckers that develop in the crotch between main stems and side branches when they are 2-4 inches long to improve air circulation and direct energy to fruit production. Pinch off lower leaves that touch the soil or show signs of disease to prevent pathogen spread. Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves throughout the growing season. Avoid heavy pruning once fruit set occurs, as determinate varieties have a predetermined growing period and excessive pruning can reduce overall yield.

Maintenance Level

low

Container Growing

✓ Suitable for container growing

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Green parts of Solanum lycopersicum 'Heatmaster' including leaves, stems, and unripe green fruits contain solanine and tomatine alkaloids that are toxic to humans and pets if consumed in large quantities, potentially causing nausea, vomiting, and digestive upset. Ripe red fruits are completely safe and edible, containing negligible levels of these compounds.

Planting Guide

Planting Methods & Timing

Planting Method

transplant

Indoor Start

6 weeks before last frost

Direct Sow Timing

not recommended

Days to Maturity

75–85 days

Plant Spacing

24 inches

Companion Planting

Good Companions

basil
oregano
parsley
marigolds
nasturtiums
carrots
lettuce

Avoid Planting With

fennel
brassicas
corn
kohlrabi
dill