Tomato seeds for this Russian heirloom were made available by Marina Danilenko, a Moscow seeds woman. This favorite heirloom tomato was named after the operatic artist who won acclaim as an advocate of equal rights for Blacks. His artistry was admired world-wide, especially in the Soviet Union. This “black” beefsteak tomato is slightly flattened, round, and grows to 4-inches. Its deep, rich colors, a dusky, dark-red, with dark-green shoulders, and red flesh in its center, stand it apart from others. Very flavorful fruits with luscious, earthy, exotic flavors and good acid/sweet balance. Paul Robeson (aka Pol Robeson) won “Best of Show” at 2001 and 2002 Carmel TomatoFest tasting. As this tomato variety originates from Siberia and sets fruits at lower temps, it is an excellent choice for cooler growing regions.

Culinary Use

Paste / Sauce / Canner / Slicer

Flavor Profile

Well-balanced

Flesh Color

Black

Fruit Color

Brown

Fruit Shape

Oblate

Fruit Size

Large

Leaf Type

Regular

Maturity

Mid-season

Plant Type

Indeterminate

Species

Solanum lycopersicum

Variety

Heirloom / Open Pollinated