Aussie

Described as rich, aromatic, and well balanced, a classic old-fashioned beefsteak with sweetness and lively acidity. This is the recurring catalog and grower description, not a measured claim.

A traditional Australian family heirloom grown for generations in home gardens before reaching North America.

• Indeterminate vine. It keeps growing and setting fruit right up to frost, so plan on a tall stake or cage and regular pruning through the season.
• Late to ripen, past 80 days, so it wants a long warm season or a head start indoors.
• A moderate grow, no special tricks but worth steady attention.
• Wants real summer warmth and is slow to set when nights stay cool.
• Prone to cracking and splitting after wet spells.

Sold out, or after a change? The closest alternatives, and how they differ.

Mortgage Lifterbut a deep red Australian heirloom rather than a pinkish red oneCuostraleebut a touch smaller and smoother

• Michigan Heirlooms
• Wildrose Heritage Seed Company

• Open-Pollinated Alternatives to Your Favorite Hybrids
• Heirloom vs Hybrid Tomatoes
• Slicer vs Beefsteak Tomatoes

Is Aussie determinate or indeterminate?

Aussie is an indeterminate variety. Indeterminate vine. It keeps growing and setting fruit right up to frost, so plan on a tall stake or cage and regular pruning through the season.

How long does Aussie take to ripen?

Aussie ripens in about 85 days from transplant. Late to ripen, past 80 days, so it wants a long warm season or a head start indoors.

Is Aussie an heirloom or a hybrid?

Aussie is an heirloom, an open-pollinated variety with a documented history, so seed saved from it comes back true to type.

What can I grow instead of Aussie?

A close swap is Mortgage Lifter, but a deep red Australian heirloom rather than a pinkish red one.