Characterization Descriptors for Heirloom Tomato "Amish Pink"
Infinite Seeds Association
We curate, preserve, and reproduce a collection of 1,700 heirloom tomato varieties for public use. We work to prevent genetic erosion.
History and Origin of the Variety
Historical Origin
This exceptional heirloom variety has its roots in the Amish communities of the United States, with origins dating back to the 19th century. Although its exact history remains partially shrouded in mystery, the variety is believed to have Germanic influences, which is consistent with the cultural origins of many Amish communities. The variety was carefully preserved and developed by generations of Amish farmers, who valued both its exceptional flavor and reliable yield.
Unlike many modern commercial varieties, Amish Pink represents the tradition of seed saving that characterized Amish communities, where the best plants were selected year after year to preserve and enhance desirable characteristics. This variety came to the general public through seed exchanges and the network of heirloom preservationists.
Curiosities of Variety
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Cultural heritage : Represents the sustainable agricultural tradition of Amish communities
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Uncertain origin : Its exact provenance remains part of the mystery surrounding many family varieties
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Germanic influence : Possible connection with varieties brought by German immigrants
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Family preservation : Maintained for generations through careful selection
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Giant Beefsteak : Known for producing exceptionally large fruits
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Distinctive flavor : Recognized for its sweet and complex flavor profile
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Rarity : Considered a rare and prized variety among collectors
Cultural Importance
Amish Pink represents the essence of sustainable agriculture and the preservation of genetic diversity. This variety embodies the values of Amish communities: simplicity, sustainability, and respect for the land. Its preservation for generations without the use of commercial hybridization techniques makes it a priceless genetic treasure, demonstrating how traditional agricultural practices can maintain and improve crop quality over time.
1. PLANT DESCRIPTORS
| Feature |
Evaluation for "Amish Pink" |
| Type of growth |
Indeterminate |
| Growth habit |
Erect and vigorous |
| Plant height |
Tall (180-220 cm) |
| Plant vigor |
Very strong |
| Color of young stem |
Green |
| Pubescence of the stem |
Present |
| Hair density |
Average |
| Leaf type |
Regular (not potato type) |
| Leaf color |
Dark green |
| Leaflet shape |
Regular (normal sheet) |
| Leaflet edge |
Jagged |
| Leaf pubescence |
Present |
3. FRUIT DESCRIPTORS
| Feature |
Evaluation for "Amish Pink" |
| Fruit shape |
Oblato - Ribbed Beefsteak |
| Fruit weight |
Very large (450-900 g) |
| Fruit diameter |
Very large (>10 cm) |
| Color of unripe fruit |
Light green |
| Color of ripe fruit |
Intense pink with pinkish undertones |
| Color intensity |
Intense |
| Color uniformity |
Matte pink uniform |
| Presence of green shoulders |
Occasionally present |
| Shoulder shape |
Soft ribbed |
| Surface smoothness |
Smooth with marked grooves |
| Presence of ribs |
Marked and wavy |
| Fruit shine |
Mate |
| Chalice scar |
Big |
| Pistil scar |
Starry |
| Number of locules |
6-8 |
| Distribution of locules |
Regular |
| Thickness of the walls |
Very thick (>8 mm) |
| Firmness of the pulp |
Firm and fleshy |
| Pulp color |
Deep pink with dense flesh |
| Amount of juice |
Very juicy |
| Quantity of seeds |
Few (<40) |
6. AGRONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS
| Feature |
Evaluation for "Amish Pink" |
| Days to flowering |
Medium-late (70-75) |
| Days to harvest |
Late (85-90 days from transplant) |
| Yield per plant |
Tall (5-7 kg) |
| Number of fruits per plant |
Low-medium (8-15) |
| Harvest concentration |
Staggered (second half of the season) |
| Heat tolerance |
Tolerant |
| Cold tolerance |
Moderately tolerant |
| Low light adaptation |
Regular |
| Recommended spacing |
60-75 cm between plants |
7. RESISTANCES AND TOLERANCES
| Pathogen/Pest |
Review for "Amish Pink" |
| Alternaria (Alternaria solani) |
Moderately resistant |
| Fusarium (Fusarium oxysporum) |
Moderately resistant |
| Verticillium (Verticillium dahliae) |
Moderately resistant |
| Mildew (Phytophthora infestans) |
Susceptible |
| Bacterial wilt (Ralstonia solanacearum) |
Susceptible |
| Bacterial freckle (Pseudomonas syringae) |
Susceptible |
| Tomato mosaic virus (ToMV) |
Susceptible |
| Yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) |
Susceptible |
| Whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) |
Susceptible |
| Trips (Thrips tabaci) |
Susceptible |
| Aphids |
Susceptible |
| Cracking |
Moderately resistant |
SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE "AMISH PINK" VARIETY
Featured Attributes:
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Exceptional flavor : Sweet, rich and complex flavor with balanced notes that make it one of the tastiest beefsteak tomatoes
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Impressive Size : Giant fruits that often exceed 1-2 pounds, ideal for slicing
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Superior texture : Extremely dense and meaty flesh with few seeds, perfect for gourmet sandwiches
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Cultural heritage : Authentic variety preserved by generations of Amish farmers
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Reliable Productivity : Consistent and reliable performance in diverse growing conditions
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Exceptional conservation : The fruits keep well after harvesting
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Distinctive color : Beautiful deep pink color that distinguishes them from other beefsteak tomatoes
Limitations:
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Late maturing : Requires 85-90 days to fully mature after transplanting
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Need for sturdy support : Large fruits require very strong support structures
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Disease Susceptibility : Vulnerable to several common tomato diseases
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Lower yield : Produces less fruit per plant than smaller varieties
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Season-specific : Production concentrated in the second half of the season
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Careful handling : Requires delicate handling due to the size and weight of the fruits
Recommended Uses:
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Gourmet fresh consumption : Exceptional for slicing into high-quality sandwiches and salads
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Farmers Markets : Perfect for impressing with their size and flavor
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Homemade preserves : Excellent for making sauces and preserves due to its dense flesh
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Culinary Photography : Ideal color and size for photo presentations
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Artisanal gastronomy : Highly valued by chefs for its authentic flavor and presentation
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Seed Saving : Open-pollinated variety essential for genetic preservation
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Collectibles : A must for collectors of authentic Amish varieties
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Historical Education : Ideal for demonstrating traditional Amish farming
Data based on documentation from seed preservationists, information from growers specializing in Amish heirloom varieties, and documented experiences from traditional beefsteak tomato growers.
