Seeds: When properly stored, planted, and cared for, we guarantee reasonable germination and true-to-type growth for one year from purchase.
Non-seed products: Free from defects in materials and workmanship for 30 days from shipment.
Excludes factors outside our control (extreme weather, pests, gardener error). If something’s off, contact us—we’ll make it right with a replacement, repair, or refund.
USDA “bioengineered (BE)” foods are those with detectable genetic material that was modified using in vitro recombinant DNA (rDNA) techniques, in ways
not obtainable through conventional breeding or found in nature. The USDA’s National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard uses “bioengineered” as the nationwide labeling term.
Detectable modified genetic material in the final food
Created via in vitro rDNA techniques (e.g., gene transfer)
Modifications not achievable through conventional breeding or nature
—seeds / pkt
( ~ g )
Description
The Black Prince Tomato is a cherished heirloom from Siberia, known for thriving in cooler climates and producing richly flavored fruit even when summers are short. This indeterminate variety matures in 75–80 days, bearing medium-sized 5–8 oz fruits with deep mahogany-red skin and dark crimson flesh.
Its flavor is complex, sweet, and slightly smoky, often described as having a wine-like depth that sets it apart from red varieties. The flesh is dense yet juicy, making it excellent for slicing, roasting, and sauces. Its balanced acidity and full-bodied taste make it a favorite among chefs and heirloom collectors alike.
Plants are vigorous, cold-tolerant, and highly adaptable, performing well in both open gardens and greenhouses. Provide full sun, fertile loamy soil, and consistent moisture for optimal yields.
Originating in the cold reaches of Siberia, the Black Prince combines beauty, resilience, and flavor in one unforgettable heirloom—perfect for gardeners who value both performance and depth of taste.
Add content in product metafield custom.planting_care_information.
How to Grow – Black Prince Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Watering
Provide 1–1½ inches of water per week, increasing slightly during high heat or heavy fruit set.
Water deeply and evenly to encourage robust root development and prevent cracking in these richly pigmented, thin-skinned fruits.
Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to deliver consistent soil-level moisture while minimizing foliar wetness and disease risk.
Avoid overhead watering, especially in the evening.
Apply 2–3 inches of organic mulch (straw, compost, or shredded leaves) once the soil warms to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
Tip: Consistent soil moisture prevents irregular ripening and enhances the deep color and balanced flavor that define Black Prince.
Fertilizing
Before planting, work 2–3 inches of compost or aged manure into the top 6 inches of soil to establish a fertile base.
Feed every 2–3 weeks during vegetative growth with a balanced organic fertilizer (10-10-10 or equivalent).
Once flowering begins, switch to a low-nitrogen, high-potassium blend (5-10-10) to enhance fruiting and deepen pigmentation.
Supplement monthly with calcium or kelp extract to prevent blossom end rot and strengthen tissue integrity.
Avoid overfertilization—too much nitrogen produces excessive leaf growth and delays maturity.
Tip: Moderate fertility promotes dense, flavorful fruit and rich anthocyanin expression.
Weeding & Mulching
Keep planting beds weed-free to minimize competition and pest harboring.
Apply 2–4 inches of organic mulch (straw, compost, or leaf mold) to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Weed carefully near stems to avoid disturbing shallow feeder roots.
Sun & Heat Management
Provide 6–8 hours of full sunlight daily for proper sugar and pigment development.
Ideal air temperature range: 75–90°F (24–32°C).
During extreme heat (>95°F / 35°C), use 30–40% shade cloth to protect blossoms and prevent sunscald on the darker fruits.
Maintain good airflow between plants to reduce humidity and prevent fungal issues like septoria leaf spot or blight.
Tip: Consistent light exposure enhances Black Prince’s dusky-red tone, while moderate shade protection preserves fruit quality in hot climates.
Spacing & Support
Space plants 30–36 inches apart in rows 36–48 inches apart.
As a medium-sized indeterminate, Black Prince requires sturdy staking, trellising, or caging for its prolific fruiting habit.
Train vines vertically and prune lightly to promote airflow and manageable canopy growth.
Remove lower leaves below the first flower cluster to prevent soil splash and disease introduction.
Tip: Early staking prevents stem stress and keeps fruits elevated for more uniform ripening and easier harvesting.
Attract beneficial predators: Interplant with small-flowered herbs like dill, coriander, or sweet alyssum to draw lacewings, hoverflies, and parasitoid wasps that feed on aphids and whiteflies.
Promote pollination: Include flowering plants such as calendula, cosmos, or native asters nearby to sustain pollinator populations through the season.
Crop rotation: Avoid planting after other solanaceous crops (peppers, potatoes, or eggplants) for 2–3 years to reduce soilborne disease pressure. Rotate with legumes or grains to improve nitrogen cycling.
Soil ecology: Maintain living mulch or cover crops to support beneficial microorganisms and improve soil structure.
Tip: IPM field studies consistently show that interplanting and rotation increase yield stability and natural pest control.
Container Growing
Grow in large containers (minimum 20–25 gallons) with sturdy trellis or cage support.
Use high-quality organic potting mix enriched with compost and perlite for drainage.
Monitor moisture daily—Black Prince’s fruits are prone to cracking under irregular watering.
Feed every 10–14 days with compost tea or diluted organic tomato fertilizer to sustain steady production.
Tip: Mulching container soil helps maintain even moisture levels and promotes richer coloration.
Season Extension
Use row covers or low tunnels early in the season to protect transplants and maintain warmth.
Preheat soil with black plastic mulch before transplanting in cooler regions.
As frost nears, remove new blossoms about 4 weeks before frost to direct energy toward ripening fruit.
Harvest nearly ripe tomatoes before frost—they’ll continue ripening indoors at 65–70°F (18–21°C).
Tip: Black Prince develops full flavor even when ripened indoors—store at room temperature out of direct sunlight.
Additional Tips — Black Prince Beefsteak Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Harvesting:
Harvest when fruits turn from dark green to a deep, reddish-brown mahogany with subtle olive or green shoulders. Fully ripe fruits yield slightly to gentle pressure yet remain firm and dense.
Each fruit averages 6–8 ounces, occasionally reaching 10 ounces under fertile soil and steady watering. Use pruning shears or scissors to harvest, leaving a short section of stem attached to reduce bruising and extend shelf life.
Pick every few days during ripening, as fruits develop their full flavor slightly after coloring deepens. Avoid harvesting directly after rain or irrigation, since the thin skin is prone to cracking. Fruits picked at early maturity will continue to develop flavor and pigment indoors at room temperature.
Flavor & Culinary Use:
Black Prince is renowned for its complex, sweet-earthy flavor and velvety texture—an ideal balance of richness, mild acidity, and natural sweetness. Its flesh is firm and juicy, with an almost wine-like undertone that intensifies as the fruit ripens.
Excellent for slicing and fresh eating, it brings a sophisticated depth to salads, sandwiches, and antipasti. When roasted or slow-cooked, its flavors deepen into savory, smoky tones ideal for artisan sauces or roasted vegetable medleys.
Black Prince’s dusky hue and tender flesh make it a culinary favorite among chefs for both visual impact and balanced taste—proof that elegance and depth can coexist in one heirloom variety.
Handling & Storage:
Store harvested fruits at 55–70 °F (13–21 °C) in a cool, shaded, and well-ventilated location. Avoid refrigeration, which suppresses its nuanced sweetness and smooth texture.
Lay fruits in a single layer on padded or cloth-lined trays to prevent bruising. Under proper handling, Black Prince retains its best quality for 5–7 days.
For market presentation or transport, harvest at 85–90% color—firm but fully developed in tone. They will finish ripening evenly postharvest while maintaining excellent visual appeal.
Pruning & Support:
As an indeterminate variety, Black Prince requires sturdy trellising or staking for its vigorous growth and medium-heavy fruit load. Provide vertical supports of at least 6–7 feet and tie vines gently with soft twine to prevent splitting.
Remove lower leaves after the plant is established to prevent soil splash and early blight. Pinch suckers below the first flower cluster to promote stronger main stems and better fruit production.
Moderate pruning enhances airflow and ripening consistency while maintaining enough foliage to protect fruits from sunscald.
Sun & Water Tips:
Provide 6–8 hours of full sunlight daily for best color and flavor development. In very hot climates, slight afternoon shade preserves the dark tones and reduces skin softening.
Water deeply once or twice weekly to maintain consistent moisture. Fluctuating soil moisture may cause cracking or uneven ripening.
Apply mulch such as straw, shredded leaves, or compost after the soil has warmed to stabilize moisture levels and prevent temperature stress. Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to keep foliage dry and reduce the risk of disease.
Seed Saving:
Select seed from healthy, true-to-type plants producing dark mahogany fruit with balanced sweetness and uniform size. Allow chosen fruits to ripen fully on the vine until slightly soft for mature seed development.
Scoop out pulp and seeds into a small jar with a little water and ferment for 2–3 days, stirring daily to break down the gelatinous coating. Rinse thoroughly, then spread the seeds thinly on a non-stick surface or mesh to dry for 7–10 days in shaded airflow.
Store fully dried seeds in airtight containers in a cool, dark, and dry location. Properly cured Black Prince seeds remain viable for 4–6 years. As an open-pollinated variety, they will breed true if isolated by 25–50 feet from other tomato types.
Ecological & Pollinator Notes:
Black Prince thrives in organically rich, well-drained soil with moderate fertility. Its bright yellow blossoms attract a diversity of native pollinators—especially bumblebees and hoverflies—that improve fruit set through vibration pollination.
Interplant with basil, dill, or calendula to attract pollinators and repel common tomato pests. Rotate plantings every two to three years with nitrogen-restoring crops such as legumes or leafy greens to maintain soil vitality.
Avoid planting near peppers or potatoes, which share pest and fungal threats. Maintain 30 inches between plants for optimal airflow and disease prevention.
Culinary Pairings & Presentation Tips:
Black Prince’s rich, dark flesh and subtle sweetness elevate both rustic and refined cuisine. Slice thickly with mozzarella, fresh herbs, and olive oil for a vibrant contrast of color and flavor.
Its umami depth complements grilled meats, mushrooms, aged cheeses, and roasted garlic. When slow-roasted, the flavor becomes sweet, smoky, and savory—excellent for sauces or artisanal tomato jams.
In market displays, its mahogany-brown skin and emerald shoulders draw attention alongside bright yellows and reds, symbolizing the refined elegance of the black tomato lineage.
Common Pests & Problems — 'Black Prince' Beefsteak (Solanum lycopersicum)
Insects & Mites
Tomato Hornworms (large caterpillars, extensive defoliation and fruit chewing)
Controls: Inspect plants in early morning or late evening when hornworms are most active. Handpick and destroy any found. Encourage beneficial parasitic wasps (Cotesia congregata) to maintain biological control. Apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) late in the day, ensuring thorough coverage of both leaf surfaces. Keep nearby weeds and wild nightshades cleared to reduce egg-laying by adult moths.
Aphids (leaf curling, honeydew accumulation, and reduced plant vigor)
Controls: Use yellow sticky traps to detect infestations early. Spray neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5–7 days until populations decline. Attract beneficial predators like lady beetles, lacewings, and hoverflies by companion planting dill, fennel, and yarrow. Avoid overfertilizing with nitrogen, which encourages tender growth that aphids prefer.
Whiteflies (leaf yellowing, honeydew, and black sooty mold)
Controls: Deploy yellow sticky traps near plants to capture adults. Spray neem oil or horticultural soap weekly during infestations. Introduce Encarsia formosa wasps for sustainable biological suppression. Prune lower leaves for airflow and remove weeds that harbor pests.
Spider Mites (fine webbing, stippling, and bronzed foliage)
Controls: Maintain consistent watering and humidity to reduce mite outbreaks. Rinse plants with water to remove mites and dust. Apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap weekly until populations are controlled. Avoid drought and dusty conditions that favor mite infestations.
Diseases
Early Blight (Alternaria solani) (dark concentric leaf spots, stem lesions, and yellowing)
Controls: Rotate tomato crops every 2–3 years and avoid planting near peppers or potatoes. Apply copper-based fungicide preventively during humid weather. Water at the soil level to keep foliage dry. Remove and dispose of infected leaves promptly. Mulch heavily to reduce soil splash.
Fusarium Wilt (Fusarium oxysporum) (yellowing, wilting, and lower leaf drop)
Controls: Solarize soil before planting to suppress fungal spores. Choose resistant cultivars if possible. Maintain proper drainage and consistent watering. Remove infected plants immediately and disinfect garden tools.
Septoria Leaf Spot (Septoria lycopersici) (numerous small grayish spots, premature defoliation)
Controls: Maintain mulch to prevent soil splash. Apply copper fungicide preventively during humid or rainy periods. Remove infected foliage as soon as symptoms appear. Avoid overhead watering to reduce moisture on leaves.
Physiological & Environmental Issues
Blossom End Rot (calcium deficiency, dark sunken patches on fruit ends)
Controls: Maintain consistent watering and mulch to conserve soil moisture. Test calcium levels and amend soil with lime or gypsum if necessary. Avoid nitrogen-heavy fertilization that interferes with calcium uptake.
Cracking (caused by irregular watering or sudden rainfall during ripening)
Controls: Keep soil moisture stable through even irrigation. Mulch deeply to regulate conditions. Harvest fruits promptly during wet weather to prevent splitting.
Sunscald (white or leathery patches on exposed fruits)
Controls: Maintain healthy foliage for natural fruit shading. Avoid over-pruning. Use 20–30% shade cloth during peak sunlight or heatwaves to prevent damage.
Monitoring & Prevention — Quick Checklist
Inspect plants twice weekly for hornworms, aphids, and early disease signs.
Rotate tomato crops yearly to reduce soilborne pathogens.
Maintain mulch to conserve moisture and reduce soil splash.
Water deeply and evenly at soil level, keeping foliage dry.
Prune lower leaves to improve airflow while maintaining canopy for shading.
Encourage beneficial insects through diverse companion plantings.
Remove diseased foliage immediately and disinfect all tools and plant supports.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) — Black Prince Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Q: What type of tomato is Black Prince?
Black Prince is an indeterminate, open-pollinated slicing tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) known for its dusky maroon-brown color and complex, rich flavor. Originating from Siberia, this heirloom variety is particularly valued for its ability to set fruit in cooler climates, offering medium-sized, 3–5 oz tomatoes with a balance of sweetness and acidity reminiscent of wine or smoked fruit.
Q: How long does Black Prince take to mature?
Expect 70–75 days from transplant to first ripe fruit. It is considered an early-maturing dark tomato, performing reliably even in shorter growing seasons.
Q: How long does it take for Black Prince seeds to germinate?
Seeds typically germinate in 5–10 days at 75–90 °F (24–32 °C). Cooler conditions may delay germination.
Q: Does Black Prince need special soil conditions?
Yes. For best results, use deep, fertile, and well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Consistent moisture and full sun enhance the fruit’s deep coloration and flavor intensity.
Q: What spacing do Black Prince tomatoes need?
Plant 24–36 inches apart in rows 36–48 inches apart. Provide strong support or caging — the vines are vigorous and produce steadily through the season.
Q: Do I need more than one plant for pollination?
No. Black Prince is self-pollinating, though gentle airflow and insect activity may increase fruit set.
Q: Can I grow Black Prince in containers?
Yes, though large containers (10–15 gallons) are recommended. Ensure rich potting mix, consistent watering, and staking or caging to support the indeterminate vines.
Q: How tall do Black Prince plants get?
Plants reach 5–6 feet tall under optimal conditions. Prune lightly to improve airflow and sun exposure without over-thinning.
Q: Why are my Black Prince tomatoes cracking or scarring?
Cracking often occurs after heavy watering following dry periods. Maintain consistent soil moisture and mulch around plants to reduce fluctuations.
Q: How should I harvest Black Prince tomatoes?
Harvest when fruits turn a deep mahogany-brown with greenish shoulders. The flesh should yield slightly to touch but remain firm.
Q: How do I store Black Prince tomatoes after harvest?
Keep fruits at room temperature (55–70 °F / 13–21 °C). Do not refrigerate unless fully ripe and needing to be preserved — cold dulls the flavor.
Q: Are Black Prince tomatoes good for cooking?
Yes. While excellent fresh in salads or sandwiches, they are outstanding for roasting, slow-cooked sauces, or paired with smoked salt and olive oil. The flavor develops even further when lightly roasted.
Q: Are Black Prince tomatoes heirloom?
Yes. Black Prince is a Siberian heirloom dating back to the mid-20th century, prized for its adaptability and rich, earthy flavor that embodies the “black tomato” category.
Q: Why are my fruits lighter than expected?
Color variation can occur due to temperature or sunlight exposure. Warm, consistent weather and full sun yield the darkest tones.
Q: Can I save seeds from Black Prince?
Yes. As an open-pollinated heirloom, it will breed true to type. Choose fully ripe fruits, ferment the seeds in water for 2–3 days, rinse clean, and dry thoroughly before storing.
History & Culture — Black Prince Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Tomatoes are one of the greatest agricultural gifts of the Indigenous peoples of the Americas. Long before European contact, Indigenous farmers of western South America and Mesoamerica had already domesticated wild Solanum species, transforming them from small, sour berries into richly flavored, productive crops. Grown in raised fields and terraced gardens, tomatoes became part of a vibrant food system alongside maize, beans, and chili peppers — a living agricultural science that continues among Indigenous growers today.
When tomato seeds traveled across the Atlantic in the 1500s, they carried that legacy with them. European growers, first skeptical, gradually embraced the fruit, refining new forms in Italy, France, and Spain. Yet every variety, from the smallest cherry to the densest paste tomato, still descends from those early Indigenous selections.
The Black Prince Tomato (Czernyj Prins in Russian) is one of Siberia’s most renowned heirlooms, originating in the city of Irkutsk. Its deep, mahogany-red fruits and complex, wine-like flavor reflect centuries of cold-climate adaptation and careful seed selection by Russian gardeners. Introduced to Western seed catalogs in the late 20th century, Black Prince quickly gained fame among tomato enthusiasts for its early maturity, rich taste, and ability to thrive in cooler growing regions.
Though cultivated far from the Andes and Mesoamerica where tomatoes were first domesticated, the Black Prince’s lineage remains part of that same living chain of cultivation and care. Its story speaks to how the tomato, carried by trade and migration, took root in diverse climates while retaining the soul of its Indigenous origins.
In today’s gardens, the Black Prince Tomato stands as a symbol of resilience and refinement. Each dusky fruit embodies both the endurance of northern growers and the timeless heritage of the Americas — proof that great seeds flourish wherever hands nurture them with intention and respect.
Saving seeds from Black Prince Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum):
1. Selecting Plants for Seed Saving:
Choose healthy plants with vigorous growth and abundant, well-formed fruits.
Avoid plants showing signs of disease or poor growth.
2. Harvesting Seeds:
Timing: Allow the tomatoes to ripen fully on the plant until they are soft.
Collection: Harvest the ripe tomatoes and cut them open to remove the seeds.
3. Cleaning Seeds:
Separation: Place the seeds and their gel in a container of water. Let them ferment for 2-3 days, stirring daily to separate the seeds from the gel.
Inspection: Rinse the seeds thoroughly to remove any remaining gel and inspect for cleanliness and freedom from mold or pests.
4. Drying Seeds:
Place the cleaned seeds on a paper towel or screen in a well-ventilated, dry area. Allow them to dry completely for one to two weeks.
5. Storing Seeds:
Containers: Store seeds in labeled paper envelopes or airtight containers.
Storage Conditions: Keep in a cool, dry, and dark place.
Viability: Use seeds within four to six years for best results.
6. Testing Seed Viability:
Test by placing seeds on a damp paper towel in a plastic bag in a warm place and check for germination.
Tips for Successful Seed Saving:
Isolation: Maintain distance between different tomato varieties to prevent cross-pollination.
Pollinators: Tomatoes are primarily self-pollinating, but encouraging pollinators can still be beneficial.
Record Keeping: Keep detailed records of the process.
Uses and Benefits:
Black Prince Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is known for its medium-sized, dark fruits and sweet flavor. It is often used in salads, sandwiches, and sauces.
Tomatoes provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting overall health. Black Prince Tomatoes are versatile in culinary applications, adding unique color and flavor to dishes.
Shipped from U.S.A.
Our seeds are grown and sourced from the US. They're then packed and shipped from Colerain NC.
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We regularly test the quality and germination rate of our seeds. We're so confident that our seeds are backed by a 1 year warranty!
Soil Readiness
for Tomato Plants (Solanum lycopersicum)
Where to get a soil test
Best option: your state’s Cooperative Extension soil testing lab.
Tip: Arid/alkaline regions (e.g., AZ, NM, UT, parts of CA) often use Olsen (bicarbonate) for phosphorus.
Interprets P by extractant; assumes ppm. Results are approximate.
Enter at least one value above, then Calculate.
Summary
Recommended Amendments (per 100 sq ft)
How to Use
Mix P & K sources into top 3–6″ a week or two before planting.
If pH is low, apply lime 3–4 weeks pre-plant (or fall/winter).
Side-dress tomatoes with ~0.1 lb N / 100 sq ft at first fruit set; a light second side-dress after heavy early harvest is optional.
Keep soil evenly moist and mulch to help prevent blossom-end rot (a Ca/moisture issue).
Add 1–2″ finished compost yearly to build organic matter.
Container mix? Use a peat/coco-based mix with compost and slow-release organic fertilizer; pH is usually already correct.
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Alliance Of Native Seedkeepers
Tomato Seeds - Indeterminate - Black Prince Beefsteak
$100 USD
$200
Unit price /
Unavailable
Description
The Black Prince Tomato is a cherished heirloom from Siberia, known for thriving in cooler climates and producing richly flavored fruit even when summers are short. This indeterminate variety matures in 75–80 days, bearing medium-sized 5–8 oz fruits with deep mahogany-red skin and dark crimson flesh.
Its flavor is complex, sweet, and slightly smoky, often described as having a wine-like depth that sets it apart from red varieties. The flesh is dense yet juicy, making it excellent for slicing, roasting, and sauces. Its balanced acidity and full-bodied taste make it a favorite among chefs and heirloom collectors alike.
Plants are vigorous, cold-tolerant, and highly adaptable, performing well in both open gardens and greenhouses. Provide full sun, fertile loamy soil, and consistent moisture for optimal yields.
Originating in the cold reaches of Siberia, the Black Prince combines beauty, resilience, and flavor in one unforgettable heirloom—perfect for gardeners who value both performance and depth of taste.
