San Marzano

‘San Marzano’ stands as a red paste-type tomato, steeped in tomato mythology with intriguing origin stories that weave tales of where, when, and who brought this tomato to life. Amidst the abundance of rumors, a few facts emerge, notably its name derived from an Italian town nestled near the iconic Mount Vesuvius. For generations, farmers in this region have dedicated themselves to cultivating tomatoes akin to San Marzano, meticulously honing their characteristics for paste production, earning it the status of a preferred standard among Italian farmers.
This tomato variety unfolds as a compact and prolific producer, yielding bright-red, slim, 2-3 inch, plum-type tomatoes throughout an extended season. With a distinctive paste tomato profile characterized by a pointy end, heavy walls, a few seeds, and a hint of juice, ‘San Marzano’ proves to be an exceptional choice for crafting delicious tomato sauces. Its crack-resistant nature enhances its reliability and resilience throughout the growing season, contributing to its popularity among gardeners.
Beyond its horticultural attributes, ‘San Marzano’ holds a prominent place in culinary circles, prized for its unique flavor profile. The tomato’s taste is often described as robust, with a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, making it a preferred choice for creating rich and flavorful tomato sauces. Its thick flesh and low seed count contribute to the sauce’s desirable consistency, ensuring a culinary experience that elevates pasta dishes, pizzas, and various Italian recipes.
Many enthusiasts find ‘San Marzano’ to surpass the renowned Roma variety in terms of taste, further solidifying its reputation as a top choice in the kitchen. With an approximate maturity period of 80 days, this tomato variety not only satisfies the discerning tastes of chefs but also rewards gardeners with a bountiful harvest that resonates with the authentic flavors of Italian cuisine.

Other red paste-type tomato listings within our database include: Veselyy Gnom, San Marzano Lampadina, Ten Fingers of Naples (Dix Doigts de Naples), Sarnowski Polish Plum, San Marzano Nano, and Italian Plum.

Find seeds for this and many more tomato varieties at Totally Tomatoes and other retailers listed below.