Variety characteristics:

• 39 Lavender Lake is a rare open-pollinated Bulgarian tomato producing impressive dark-colored beefsteaks on vigorous indeterminate vines. The large, oblate fruits typically weigh approximately 16–20 oz, or about 1–1.25 lb, and develop gently to moderately ribbed shoulders. Their unusual exterior blends terracotta red, dusky purple-brown, and olive-green shading, becoming richer and darker as the fruits fully mature. Inside, the substantial crimson flesh is meaty, juicy, and aromatic, delivering a well-balanced heirloom tomato flavor that leans toward the sweet side. This mid-to-late or late-season variety may take time to begin ripening, but established plants can continue setting and maturing heavy crops until autumn frost. Train the vigorous vines to one or two main stems and provide strong staking, caging, or trellising for the exceptionally heavy fruit. Excellent for fresh slicing, sandwiches, burgers, salads, dark tomato platters, salsa, sauces, and thick purée.