Plum tomatoes are known for their oval shape, making them perfect for sauces and pastes. Unlike regular tomatoes, plum tomatoes have fewer seeds and thicker flesh, which means less mess in the kitchen. Images of plum tomatoes often show their deep red color, but they can also be yellow, orange, or even purple.

Plum tomatoes are sometimes called “Roma tomatoes,” after the Italian city famous for using them in cooking. Because of their thick skin, plum tomatoes handle cooking heat better without falling apart. In Italy, plum tomatoes are a staple ingredient for making authentic marinara sauce.

Plum tomatoes typically have a stronger, sweeter flavor compared to slicing tomatoes. When looking at images of plum tomatoes, you might notice their pointed ends, which help distinguish them from round varieties. They’re a favorite for drying into sun-dried tomatoes due to their meatiness and low water content.

Plum tomatoes were first cultivated by the Aztecs before becoming popular worldwide. These tomatoes are less juicy, making them ideal for canning and preserving. Gardeners love growing plum tomatoes because they tend to produce more fruit per plant than regular tomatoes.

The size of plum tomatoes usually ranges between 2 to 4 inches long, making them easy to handle and chop. Their skin is tougher, so they hold up well in soups and stews without disintegrating. Images of plum tomatoes often highlight their smooth texture and firm appearance.

In the U.S., plum tomatoes are often the go-to choice for making ketchup and tomato paste. Plum tomatoes have fewer cracks and blemishes compared to other types, making them look great in photos. They require slightly less water than other tomato plants, which can be a bonus for home gardeners.

Some plum tomatoes grow in clusters, which means you get more tomatoes per harvest. Their shape makes them perfect for slicing lengthwise in salads or sandwiches. If you check images of plum tomatoes at farmers’ markets, you’ll see a variety of colors and sizes.

Plum tomatoes are sometimes referred to as “paste tomatoes” because of their high solid content. They are less acidic than cherry tomatoes, which can be a relief for sensitive stomachs. Images of plum tomatoes can reveal small green shoulders near the stem, which is normal for this variety.

One fun fact is that plum tomatoes are easier to peel after blanching because of their thick skin. They have fewer seeds, which means sauces made from them are less bitter and smoother. The appearance of plum tomatoes in images often emphasizes their firm, meaty texture.

Plum tomato plants are usually more resistant to common tomato diseases, making them great for beginners. Their flavor intensifies when cooked, turning sweeter and richer in dishes like pasta sauce. Images of plum tomatoes often show water droplets clinging to their smooth skin after a fresh wash.

Plum tomatoes are packed with lycopene, an antioxidant that’s good for heart health. They are often harvested when slightly underripe to reduce damage during shipping. Images of plum tomatoes sometimes show them alongside basil and garlic—classic Italian combo.

You can find plum tomatoes growing on both determinate (bushy) and indeterminate (vining) plants. Their flesh-to-juice ratio makes them ideal for thickening soups without adding extra flour. The color contrast in images of plum tomatoes with other tomato types is striking—deep reds against bright yellows or greens.

Plum tomatoes can be used in salsa for a thicker texture and less watery result. Some heirloom plum tomatoes have unique stripes or color patterns, making them popular in gourmet cooking. Images of plum tomatoes can sometimes be mistaken for small peppers because of their shape and shine.

Plum tomatoes grow best in warm climates with plenty of sunlight—too much shade reduces their flavor. They’re often the choice for homemade tomato sauces because they reduce cooking time. Images of plum tomatoes highlight their shiny skin, which protects the juicy interior.

Gardeners sometimes prune plum tomato plants to increase airflow and prevent fungal diseases. Plum tomatoes take longer to ripen than cherry tomatoes but reward patience with richer flavor. Images of plum tomatoes are often used in cooking blogs and recipe books because of their attractive shape.

You can freeze plum tomatoes whole or chopped and still get great sauce later in the year. In Italy, plum tomatoes are essential in making sun-dried tomatoes, prized for their intense flavor. Images of plum tomatoes show how their thick flesh keeps them firm even after freezing.

Plum tomatoes are less likely to split after heavy rain compared to regular tomatoes. They have fewer juice sacs, which means sauces made from them are naturally thicker. Images of plum tomatoes often capture their rich, glossy look that makes you want to cook immediately.

Some plum tomatoes have been bred to be seedless or have very few seeds, making them easier to use. The plant’s leaves have a distinctive smell that gardeners recognize easily. Images of plum tomatoes sometimes include close-ups showing their smooth skin texture.

Plum tomato plants can produce fruit over a longer period, offering multiple harvests in one season. They’re great for drying, canning, freezing, or making fresh sauces. Images of plum tomatoes at different ripening stages show the beautiful color transition from green to red.

Plum tomatoes are often the star ingredient in Italian dishes like arrabbiata and puttanesca sauce. Their firm flesh helps them hold up in oven roasting, concentrating their sweetness. Images of plum tomatoes serve as a reminder of their versatility, from fresh salads to rich cooked dishes.