Available for purchase from 1 July 2025  

The wild cherry tomato, Solanum spontaneum, is a lesser-known variety within the Solanum genus, believed to be a form or synonym of Solanum pimpinellifolium, the species from which all cultivated tomatoes were derived. Native to regions stretching from northern Peru to Chile, S. spontaneum has found favour among heirloom growers for its indeterminate growth and botanical purity. Plants typically grow between 1.2 and 1.5 meters tall and continue producing fruit throughout the season.

Fruits form in tight clusters of up to 29 small, round yellow berries, each weighing around one gram. These tomatoes are consistently sweet and refreshing, making them perfect for snacking, garnishing, or adding a touch of colour to salads. Their petite size and pleasant flavour make them a favourite in gardens where children roam or where fresh grazing is encouraged.

To germinate Solanum spontaneum, sow seeds 5 mm deep in trays or pots and maintain a consistent soil temperature of 20–25°C, ideally with bottom heat. Germination typically occurs within 7 to 14 days. As a wild variety, seeds may germinate unevenly, but overall viability remains strong when warm, humid conditions are provided.

Seedlings should be transplanted once the threat of frost has passed and night temperatures remain above 10°C. These plants thrive in full sun with well-draining soil and require staking or support due to their vining nature. Fruit matures approximately 65 to 80 days after transplant and should be harvested once fully yellow and slightly soft to the touch.

Although Solanum spontaneum has not been documented as a rootstock in grafting trials, its wild genetics, disease tolerance, and vigorous growth suggest it may hold untapped potential in breeding or grafting programs. As growers continue to explore underutilised wild tomatoes, this variety may yet prove valuable in improving resilience and performance in grafted lines.

Standard packet contains approx. 25 seeds

Petite packet contains approx. 10 seeds