Tomato - Solanum lycopersicum (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Edible)

Tomato

Also known as: Tomato plant

Solanum lycopersicum is an annual or perennial herbaceous vine native to Central and South America that produces a large, juicy, edible fruit known as tomato. Today there are over 10000 cultivated varieties. Although tomato is the world’s most popular vegetable, botanically it is a fruit.

Scientific classification

Species

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Annual, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

1 m to 3 m

Plant Height

1.5 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2 cm to 2.5 cm

Flower Size

Red, Green, Burgundy, Yellow, Purple, Orange, Gold, Lavender, Pink

Fruit Color

Yellow, Gold

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Tomato

Distribution of Tomato

Distribution Map

Tomato is native to the Andes mountains in South America, but has been cultivated so long it is not known in a truly wild condition. Now one of the world's most popular edible crops, this plant has been cultivated and naturalized around the globe.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Yards, gardens, farms

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

The common tomato can be found in vegetable gardens across the world. Able to be grown in almost any space, the tomato is considered a staple in home food gardens and is usually the one of the first plants suggested to new vegetable gardeners, though it can be a bit tricky. Basil, parsley, and garlic are suggested companion plants.

Symbolism

Truth, Silence, good luck, fertility, passion, a calm and gentle woman

Interesting Facts

Tomato is probably one of the cultivated fruits and vegetables with the greatest number of cultivars – over 10,000, with each growing season bringing new ones to market. The cultivar with the smallest fruit (5 mm - 1 cm, 1 g-2 g) is called "Tomberry," while the largest one is probably the "Big Zac," which can produce fruits weighing more than 3 kg.

Name Story

Tomato: Tomato comes from the Spanish word “tomate” which means “turgid fruit”. This word is included in part of a popular saying regarding its difference in pronunciation between American English and British English. When presented with two choices that are very similar, you might say “təˈmeɪtoʊ, təˈmɑːtoʊ", which means, just as the two pronunciation choices for the word tomato have the same meaning, the two choices are only slightly different, and so it makes no difference really which of the two you choose.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Tomato, including the following common varieties :

Tomato 'Chocolate Cherry'Tomato 'Black Russian'Tomato 'Sungold'Cherry tomato Tomato 'Beefmaster'Tomato 'Costoluto Fiorentino'

Toxicity

Tomato is toxic to both cats and dogs. When ingested, particularly the leaves, roots, and stems, pets experience gastrointestinal upset and other symptoms. It's crucial to seek immediate veterinary care to ensure proper treatment.

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Quickly Identify Tomato

Sticky glandular hairs on stems

Compound leaves with serrated edges

Distinctive star-shaped yellow flowers

Colorful glossy berries with fuzzy seeds

Alternate velvety leaves with pungent aroma

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Care Guide for Tomato

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from a temperate climate, tomato prefers consistent moisture and is moderately drought-tolerant. Watering twice a week is essential for healthy growth, especially during peak growth in warmer months, to ensure adequate soil moisture for vigorous fruiting.

Fertilize: For optimal care of tomato, use high phosphorus fertilizers to enhance fruit production and balanced nutrition fertilizers for growth, applying every 2-3 weeks. Start with 2 tablespoons per plant, increasing as tomato matures. Water after fertilization to prevent root burn and support nutrient uptake.

Pruning: Tomato thrives with proper pruning techniques such as removing suckers, trimming lower leaves, and pinching tops, ideally from early to late spring. This promotes air circulation, reduces disease risk, and boosts fruit production. Sanitize tools and cut close to the main stem for effective healing.

Propagation: Tomato propagates effectively by sowing in spring and is relatively beginner-friendly. Look for new leaf growth and budding as indicators of success. Maintaining proper moisture and temperature is crucial for optimal propagation results.

Repotting: Tomato requires excellent drainage when potted to ensure healthy growth and prevent root rot. Utilizing pots with drainage holes and a well-aerated soil mix is essential for optimal moisture control.

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Images of Tomato

Distribution of Tomato

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Tomato

Care Guide for Tomato

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