Heirloom Marriage™ Cherokee Carbon Tomato

Heirloom Marriage™ Cherokee Carbon is an indeterminate beefsteak tomato with ribbed, dusky-purple fruit and rich flavor. PanAmerican Seed lists 10–12 ounce fruit and 75–80 days from transplant to maturity; its plant profile describes an upright vine that reaches about 5–7 feet. [PanAmerican Seed product page](https://www.panamseed.com/Products/062006567032981/tomato-heirloom-marriage-cherokee-carbon/) [NC State Extension tomato profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/solanum-lycopersicum/common-name/tomato/) ## Fruit and growth The breeder identifies Cherokee Carbon as a cross of Cherokee Purple and Carbon. The hybrid was selected for earlier maturity and improved yield while retaining the flavor qualities of its heirloom parents. Its large beefsteaks are suited to slicing and fresh eating. ## Growing conditions Grow in full sun in moist, well-drained, loamy soil. Tomatoes prefer slightly acidic soil and steady watering; the NC State profile notes that moisture swings can contribute to splitting fruit and blossom-end rot. PanAmerican recommends in-ground culture for this vigorous indeterminate selection. ## Maintenance Set plants out after frost danger has passed. Add a substantial cage or trellis early, keep water consistent as fruit enlarges, and avoid excess nitrogen. Harvest purple fruit when ripe and use promptly for sandwiches, salads, or cooking.