What is an‘Heirloom’ tomato?

 

An heirloom (also known as "heritage") tomato is one that has been passed down from generation to generation and retains the same characteristics. The seeds have been nurtured and carefully selected, and often tell a story of resettlement, neighbourly sharing, and pride of heritage. Heirloom tomatoes are prized for their array of shapes, sizes and colours, as well as distinct flavours.

 

Heirloom tomatoes grow ‘true from seed’, which means that their characteristics remain the same with each generation, provided they are not allowed to cross-pollinate with other varieties. The preservation of heirloom varieties is considered important in the effort to maintain genetic diversity.