Medium-large, slightly flattened 3–4" fruits weigh 12–14 oz and mature to a striking dark mahogany/brown with pronounced deep-green shoulders. The flesh is dense, smooth, and melts in the mouth with an outstanding rich, smoky-fruity flavor that carries a distinctive savory, almost salty undertone.
 
Unlike most black tomatoes that shut down in heat, this one keeps producing respectably even through summer’s worst stretches. It has quickly become a customer favorite and a permanent fixture in many gardens.
 
For peak flavor, keep watering on the lean side once plants are established—dryer conditions concentrate that incredible intensity.
 
As with all “black” varieties, fruit color deepens dramatically with strong direct sun. Expect the heaviest sets early in the season and again in the cooler days of late summer and fall.

HISTORY: Ukrainian family heirloom (although the name implies that it could have originated from Tula, Russia). This variety was imported from Russia by Marina Danilenko via the Seed Savers Exchange and first offered in the SSE 1996 Yearbook. Likely the same variety (translated) as Chernomor.
 
Sold as one plant in a 3.5" pot.