Tomato ‘California Tulip’

Tomato Tulipe de Californie (Solanum lycopersicum) is an exotic and spectacular indeterminate variety prized for its medium-sized, ribbed, meaty fruits whose shape resembles a tulip in full bloom. Their coloration blends yellow, orange, and pink, creating an artistic visual effect in both the vegetable garden and on the plate. The dense, flavorful flesh contains very few seeds and offers a well-balanced taste with a refreshing touch of acidity. Grown as an annual in Canada, it matures in mid-season, approximately 75 to 85 days, and produces high yields until the first frost.

Tomato Tulipe de Californie thrives in full sun in rich, fertile, well-drained soil with regular but moderate watering to preserve fruit quality. Start seeds indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last expected frost at a temperature of 22 to 28C (72 to 82F) to encourage reliable germination. Once seedlings reach 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 in) tall and all danger of frost has passed, transplant them into the garden or containers, spacing plants approximately 60 cm (24 in) apart. Since plants can reach 1.5 to 2 m (5 to 6.5 ft) tall, sturdy staking and mulch around the base are recommended.

In the garden, this decorative tomato is ideal for collector vegetable gardens, sunny rows, large containers of at least 20 L (5 gal), and edible landscapes where a productive and remarkable variety is desired. It grows well alongside herbs, annual flowers, and seasonal vegetables that attract pollinators and support biodiversity throughout the garden. Its colorful, ribbed fruits are perfect for salads, tomato tarts, refined dishes, homemade sauces, and coulis. Tulipe de Californie brings an artistic, flavorful, and memorable touch to summer harvests.