Potato leaf tomatoes are a unique and flavorful variety, known for their broad, potato-like leaves. This characteristic, which differs from the typical tomato leaf, has intrigued many gardeners and cooks alike. Not only do these tomatoes look different, but they also often offer superior flavor. Here’s a deeper dive into why they taste so good and how you can grow them.
What Makes Potato Leaf Tomatoes Different?
Most tomatoes have wild, or regular, leaves with seven leaflets attached to a central vein, which is the dominant leaf shape in the Solanum lycopersicum species. However, potato leaf tomatoes have broad, fused leaves, resulting from a recessive genetic mutation. The potato leaf trait likely originated in Europe, particularly in countries like Russia, the Czech Republic, and Germany, and by the early 1900s, it became well-known globally.
These varieties are found in both fast-maturing determinate types and later-ripening indeterminate ones, and they are a popular choice for home gardeners due to their distinctive leaves and flavor.
Why Do Potato Leaf Tomatoes Taste Better?
Potato leaf varieties are often touted for their superior flavor. But do they actually taste better, or is it simply the appeal of heirlooms? In 2019, a study at the University of California confirmed that potato leaf varieties have higher levels of soluble sugars than regular leaf types. Varieties like ‘Stupice’, ‘Brandywine’, and ‘Pruden’s Purple’ showed especially high brix ratings, indicating sweeter flavors.
The reason for this lies in the plant’s physiology. Potato leaf tomatoes channel more energy to the fruit rather than to growing leaves and branches. This genetic mutation alters the plant’s resource allocation, producing more concentrated sugars in the fruit. Essentially, the same genetic change that causes the potato leaf shape also makes the fruit sweeter.
Popular Potato Leaf Tomato Varieties
Potato leaf tomatoes come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and maturation times. Whether you’re in a cool or warm climate, there are varieties to suit your gardening needs.
Early Maturing (55-65 days from transplanting)
These varieties are perfect for cooler climates, as they bear fruit in under 70 days. They are often small and red, and some can be grown in containers.
- Bloody Butcher (indeterminate)
- Glacier (determinate)
- Matina (indeterminate)
- Siberia (determinate)
- Stupice (indeterminate)
Mid-Season (75 days from transplanting)
These varieties feature larger clusters of tomatoes, with colors ranging from mahogany red to greenish shoulders.
- Black Sea Man (determinate)
- Burwood’s Prize (indeterminate)
- Japanese Black Trifele (indeterminate)
- Pruden’s Purple (indeterminate)
Late Season (80+ days from transplanting)
These full-season varieties produce large, beefsteak-type tomatoes, making them perfect for slicing. They’re a must for any tomato connoisseur.
- Brandywine (indeterminate)
- German Pink (indeterminate)
- Green Giant (indeterminate)
- Lillian’s Yellow (indeterminate)
- Mariana’s Peace (indeterminate)
- Soldaki (indeterminate)
- Valena Pink (indeterminate)
Conclusion
Potato leaf tomatoes aren’t just a delight for gardeners with their unique appearance; they are also a treat for the tastebuds. Their sweet, flavorful fruits make them a standout in any garden. Whether you’re growing small varieties like ‘Stupice’ for an early harvest or indulging in large beefsteaks like ‘Brandywine’, these tomatoes are worth the effort. Experiment with different varieties to find the perfect one for your garden and your palate!