434. PURPLE SMUDGE
The Purple Smudge tomato is a distinctive heirloom variety notable for its vibrant appearance and historical significance. This indeterminate plant yields medium-sized, round fruits, typically weighing between 2 to 4 ounces (approximately 60 to 120 grams). The tomatoes feature a light pink to orange skin adorned with prominent dark purple to black smudges on the shoulders, a coloration resulting from anthocyanin pigments that intensify with increased sunlight exposure. The flesh is juicy with a mild, sweet flavor, making it suitable for fresh consumption in salads or as a unique addition to various dishes. Notably, ‘Purple Smudge’ was one of the earliest tomato varieties to exhibit true purple pigmentation before the development of modern blue and black tomato cultivars. The plant is indeterminate, producing fruit continuously over the growing season, and thrives in full sun with well-drained soil. Its unique aesthetic appeal and historical background make it a cherished variety among heirloom tomato enthusiasts.