Solanum lycopersicum

Tomato, Trátá, Garden Tomato

Description

An annual herbaceous plant native to Central and South America, it is now one of the best known and most widespread crops of economic importance in horticulture, both for fresh consumption and for making preserves, sauces, pizzas, fresh or frozen preparations depending on the variety.

Abundantly branched, it flowers from spring until the end of summer, displaying small flowers in raceme-like inflorescences that attract useful pollinating insects such as bees and bumblebees. It is easy to grow and moderately hardy, adapting to different soil conditions, but prefers structured soils exposed to full sun. The fruit or berry ripens in stages, with different colours and shapes in the many varieties available, and is also rich in vitamins and mineral salts.