Beefsteak is the classic large red slicing tomato, an open-pollinated type whose name has become a category for any very large, meaty fruit. The plants bear ribbed, flattened red fruit that can exceed a pound, with dense flesh and small seed cavities that make each slice big enough to cover a sandwich. Indeterminate vines produce over a long season but ripen fruit relatively late, so gardeners in cool regions need a long, warm summer. Beefsteak has been a home-garden standard for generations, valued for the sheer size and substance of its fruit and its old-fashioned, satisfying flavor when fully vine-ripened.
Flavor Profile
Full, mildly sweet old-fashioned tomato flavor; satisfying and substantial when fully vine-ripened.
Visual Characteristics
Very large, ribbed and flattened red fruit, often over a pound, with dense meaty flesh.
Growing Tips
Late to ripen and needs a long warm season; support the heavy fruit well and thin clusters for maximum size.
Resistance Information
Disease Resistance
Limited disease resistance; large fruit is prone to cracking and catfacing.
Where to Buy
Sourcing information coming soon. Check local nurseries and seed banks for availability.