Currant Tomato: The Wild Ancestor Worth Growing
Meet the currant tomato (Solanum pimpinellifolium), a fascinating little plant that might just change how you think about tomatoes. This diminutive relative of our beloved garden tomato packs a punch of flavor in fruits no bigger than your pinky nail, and it’s got a wild streak that makes it surprisingly easy to grow.
What Exactly Is a Currant Tomato?
The currant tomato goes by the botanical name Solanum pimpinellifolium, though you might also see it listed under its old scientific name, Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium. This sprawling forb—essentially a non-woody plant—can behave as either an annual or perennial depending on your climate. Think of it as the scrappy wild cousin of your garden tomato, with all the charm and none of the fuss.
Where Does It Come From?
Originally hailing from the coastal regions of western South America, particularly Peru and Ecuador, this little tomato has made its way around the world. In the United States, you’ll find it naturalized in Hawaii, where it grows and reproduces on its own without any help from gardeners.
A Non-Native with Character
Let’s be upfront: the currant tomato isn’t native to most of the United States. It’s what botanists call an introduced species that has naturalized in Hawaii. While this means it’s not contributing to local ecosystems the way native plants do, it’s also not causing ecological havoc as an invasive species. If you’re committed to native-only gardening, consider native alternatives like ground cherries (Physalis species) or wild tomatoes native to your specific region.
Why Gardeners Love (and Should Consider) Currant Tomatoes
Despite its non-native status, there are compelling reasons why gardeners are drawn to this little powerhouse:
- Incredible flavor: These tiny red fruits pack an intense, sweet-tart tomato flavor that’s more concentrated than most full-sized varieties
- Pollinator magnet: The bright yellow flowers are irresistible to bees and other beneficial insects
- Low maintenance: Once established, currant tomatoes are remarkably drought-tolerant and disease-resistant
- Continuous harvest: Plants produce fruit throughout the growing season
- Genetic treasure: This is one of the wild ancestors of modern tomatoes, making it fascinating for heritage gardeners
Perfect Spots for Currant Tomatoes
These sprawling plants work beautifully in several garden settings:
- Edible landscapes: Let them ramble through other plantings as a living mulch with edible benefits
- Cottage gardens: Their informal, sprawling nature fits perfectly with relaxed garden styles
- Container gardens: With proper support, they’ll thrive in large pots
- Heritage vegetable gardens: Essential for anyone interested in tomato genetics and history
Growing Currant Tomatoes Successfully
The good news? Currant tomatoes are generally easier to grow than their pampered garden cousins. Here’s what they need to thrive:
Climate and Hardiness
Currant tomatoes perform best in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, where they can act as tender perennials. In cooler zones, treat them as annuals and start fresh each year from seed.
Growing Conditions
Give your currant tomatoes:
- Full sun: At least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
- Well-draining soil: They’re not picky about soil type but hate wet feet
- Warm temperatures: They really take off when nighttime temperatures stay above 60°F
- Space to sprawl: These plants can spread 3-4 feet wide and tall without support
Planting and Care Tips
Starting currant tomatoes is refreshingly straightforward:
- Start from seed: Seeds germinate easily in warm soil (70-80°F)
- Plant after frost danger: Wait until soil has warmed and frost is history
- Provide support or space: Either stake them up or let them sprawl as a groundcover
- Water deeply but infrequently: Once established, they prefer occasional deep watering over frequent sprinkles
- Minimal fertilizing: Too much nitrogen creates leafy growth at the expense of fruit
The Bottom Line
While currant tomatoes aren’t native to most of the United States, they’re not troublemakers either. They offer unique flavors, support pollinators, and connect us to agricultural history. If you’re intrigued by unusual edibles and don’t mind a plant with wanderlust tendencies, currant tomatoes might deserve a spot in your garden. Just remember to also celebrate and plant native alternatives that support your local ecosystem—there’s room in most gardens for both heritage crops and native treasures.
Whether you’re drawn to their incredible flavor, their role in tomato history, or simply their easy-going nature, currant tomatoes remind us that sometimes the most interesting plants are the ones that march to their own drummer.
