San Marzano is the classic Italian plum tomato, originating in the volcanic soils near Naples and prized for centuries as the premier paste and canning tomato. The elongated, blocky fruit has thick walls, few seeds and a low water content that makes it ideal for rich sauces and the traditional Neapolitan pizza. Indeterminate vines produce heavy clusters of fruit over a long season. A true San Marzano is protected by DOP status when grown in its home region, but the open-pollinated variety is grown worldwide. Cooks value it for the way it cooks down to a smooth, sweet, low-acid sauce with deep tomato flavor.
Flavor Profile
Sweet, low-acid and intensely tomatoey when cooked; the flesh reduces to a smooth, rich sauce with little bitterness.
Visual Characteristics
Long, narrow blocky plum fruit with a pointed tip, thick meaty walls and few seeds, borne in clusters.
Growing Tips
An indeterminate paste type that needs staking; guard against blossom-end rot with steady moisture and adequate calcium.
Resistance Information
Disease Resistance
Some susceptibility to blossom-end rot; no major disease resistance.
Where to Buy
Sourcing information coming soon. Check local nurseries and seed banks for availability.