San Marzano

Compared with Roma, San Marzano is described as stronger, sweeter and less acidic, with thicker flesh and fewer seeds, which is why it is the benchmark sauce and canning tomato. Attributed description, not a measured claim.

Originated in San Marzano sul Sarno near Naples, Italy. One account dates the first seed in Campania to 1770; commercial cultivation is recorded from 1926. The protected European designation applies only to fruit grown in the defined volcanic-soil zone near Mount Vesuvius.

• 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.

• Hudson Valley Seed Company

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• When Are Tomatoes Ripe? A Variety-by-Variety Guide

Is San Marzano determinate or indeterminate?

San Marzano 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 San Marzano take to ripen?

San Marzano 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 San Marzano an heirloom or a hybrid?

San Marzano is open-pollinated, so seed saved from it comes back true to type.