Orange Banana Plum Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) – Sweet, Fruity, Heirloom Plum Variety

Botanical Name: Solanum lycopersicum
Common Name: Orange Banana Plum Tomato
Heirloom | Open-Pollinated | Non-GMO | Annual

The Orange Banana Plum is a charming heirloom tomato variety prized for its elongated, banana-shaped fruits in a vibrant orange hue. This plum tomato is well-loved for its rich, sweet flavour with fruity undertones, making it a perfect addition to salads, sauces, and fresh snacking. Its adaptability to cooler Irish climates, especially when grown in greenhouses or polytunnels, makes it ideal for home gardeners seeking something unique and delicious.

Horticultural Points

• Fruit Size: Small to medium, elongated plum shape, approx. 50–70g each
• Colour: Bright orange-yellow, smooth skin
• Flavour: Sweet, fruity, with balanced acidity
• Plant Size: Indeterminate, vigorous climber requiring support
• Days to Maturity: 70–85 days from transplant under protection
• Yield: High, producing clusters of fruits throughout the growing season

Growing Information (Ireland)

• Sow: Indoors in late winter or early spring (Feb–Mar) for transplant after frost
• Grow: Best suited for greenhouse or heated polytunnel growing in Ireland
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–6.8
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist, avoid overwatering
• Feeding: Regular feeding with tomato fertiliser encourages strong growth and flavourful fruits
• Spacing: 45–60 cm between plants
• Support: Stake or cage plants to manage vigorous growth and support heavy fruit clusters
• Harvest: Pick when fruits develop a full, vibrant orange colour and feel slightly soft

Historical Background

• Orange Banana Plum is a classic heirloom tomato, believed to have roots in traditional European seed-saving practices.
• Its distinct banana-like shape and bright orange fruits have made it a favourite among tomato enthusiasts worldwide.
• This variety’s sweet, fruity flavour and reliable production have earned it a special place in heirloom collections, particularly appreciated in cooler climates like Ireland’s where it thrives under protection.