TOMATO Seeds, Tomatillo Verde

Tomatillo Verde (Physalis philadelphica) is a heirloom tomatillo producing small, round, green fruit wrapped in a papery husk, with a bright, tart flavor. The essential ingredient for salsa verde and authentic Mexican cooking.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Physalis philadelphica
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated tomatillo
• Growth habit: indeterminate, sprawling
• Days to maturity: about 75 to 100 days from transplant
• Pollination: plant at least two for fruit set
• Sun: Full sun
• Spacing: 24 to 36 inches apart
• Planting depth: 1/4 inch for seed

Best for

• Salsa verde and green sauces
• Enchilada and chili sauces
• Soups and stews
• Roasting and grilling
• Authentic Mexican dishes

How to grow

Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost and transplant after the soil warms. Tomatillos are not self-fertile, so grow at least two plants for good pollination and fruit set. Grow in full sun in well-drained soil and water consistently. Stake or cage the sprawling plants. Harvest when the fruit fills out the husk and the husk begins to split.

Flavor profile

Bright, tart, and citrusy with a firm, juicy texture that mellows when cooked.

About 99Heirlooms

99Heirlooms specializes in non-GMO, open-pollinated heirloom seeds chosen for flavor and reliability, so you can grow proven varieties and save seed season after season.