Tamarillo Tree Tomato Seed
Image © Stephen Shirley Use This Image

Tamarillo Tree Tomato Seed

Cyphomandra betacea

Here is your opportunity to grow something very different and worthwhile. Forget conventional ways of growing tomatoes with this species that is exclusive to ourselves.

This is the fruit for cold temperatures in Winter when conventional tomatoes would die! Yes, it will tolerate a minimum temperature of 40°f, even lower if plants are kept fairly dry in Winter; Think of the heating costs you will save!

Unlike ordinary tomatoes you can use the fruit like plums in desserts and pies. It makes delicious jam too. In appearance the fruit resembles a Victoria Plum. In the UK it can fruit for 7 months of the year, usually when shop tomatoes reach a premium. Our stock is raised from parentage that originates in New Zealand.

In appearance growth is not unlike a rubber tree! It reaches about 8 ft high and leaves can reach up to 2 ft in length! Before the onset of fruit delightfully scented flowers appear.

In Summer grow in a large tub. It can be grown outdoors but remember, move inside before the onset of snow and frost!

Editorially featured in the Sunday Times on the 8th April and 1st July 2001.

Supplied as a packet of approximately 10 seeds.

Back to Vegetable Seeds

Back to Exotic Fruits

How To Grow Tamarillo Tomatoes

These require a higher temperature than other tomato varities, about 24°C/75°F, to germinate and are transplanted in the same way as standard tomato varieties. Sow seed in clean, fresh compost, just cover them and keep moist. Maintain 24°C/75°F to obtain germination for around three to five weeks.

These do require Winter frost protection.