Solanum lycopersicum ‘San Marzano’
Overview
Uses: Sauces, canning, paste production, roasting, home vegetable gardens
Benefits: Elongated, thick-walled fruit with dense flesh and low seed count, rich balanced flavor ideal for cooking, reliable production on vigorous indeterminate vines
USDA Hardiness Zones: Annual
Sun: Full Sun
Life Cycle: Annual
Mature Height: Up to 6–8 feet with staking
Mature Width: About 24–30 inches
Bloom Season: Summer to Early Fall
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
San Marzano Tomato is a classic paste variety valued for its dense flesh, low moisture content, and balanced flavor. The elongated plum-shaped fruit is especially well-suited for sauces and canning.
Fruit typically reaches 4–6 inches long and contains fewer seeds than many slicing varieties. The thick walls and firm texture create a rich consistency when cooked, making this variety a longtime favorite for homemade tomato sauce.
As an indeterminate type, San Marzano continues producing through the growing season when properly supported, offering steady harvests from mid-summer until frost.
Care
San Marzano Tomato Care
Provide at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for strong growth and fruit development.
Grow in rich, well-drained soil with consistent moisture. Water deeply and regularly, keeping soil evenly moist but not saturated.
Apply a balanced slow release fertilizer at planting and again during the growing season to support steady growth and fruit production.
Provide sturdy staking or caging early in the season. Supporting the vines improves airflow and keeps fruit off the soil.
Harvest when fruit turns fully red and feels firm with slight give when gently pressed.
Size
What Size is the San Marzano Tomato for Sale Online?
Plants ship in a greenhouse-grade grow pot and are actively growing at the time of shipment. Each plant is well-rooted and appropriately sized for its container. If you have specific sizing questions, please contact us for additional details.
How Large Does San Marzano Tomato Grow?
When properly supported, vines can reach 6–8 feet tall and spread approximately 24–30 inches wide.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
Solanum lycopersicum ‘San Marzano’ is commonly referred to as San Marzano Tomato or San Marzano Paste Tomato.
Is San Marzano a determinate or indeterminate variety?
San Marzano is an indeterminate variety, meaning it continues to grow and produce fruit throughout the season rather than setting a single concentrated crop.
How long does San Marzano take to mature?
San Marzano typically begins producing ripe fruit approximately 75–85 days after transplanting, depending on growing conditions.
Why is San Marzano preferred for sauces?
The dense flesh, low seed count, and balanced acidity create a rich texture and concentrated flavor when cooked.
