We're planning to have four different tomatillo varieties this year. Tomatillos are relatives of tomatoes and also usually require some support as the plants mature. Unlike tomatoes, they are not self fertile and two or more plants are required in order for fruit to be produced. The fruit itself grows inside a papery lantern that turns brown and splits when the tomatillo is ripe.
Tomatillo Verde literally means "green tomatillo" and it's the most common type. Salsa verde is typically made from this variety, though any tomatillo works for it. Picture from Baker Creek Seeds.
Purple Tomatillo is, as it's name suggests, a purple version. They don't loose their color when cooked, so salsa verde made with these will be more salsa morada ("purple salsa"). Picture from Kitchen Garden Seeds.
Queen of Malinalco is a variety that originated in the town of Malinalco in southwest Mexico. It's an elongated yellow tomatillo with somewhat tropical notes in it's flavor. It's larger than most other types. Picture from Renaissance Farms.
Our last variety is Dr. Wyche's Yellow tomatillo. Dr. John Wyche was a dentist from Oklahoma who was passionate about preserving heirloom varieties and who helped found Seed Savers Exchange. Both this tomatillo and the tomato variety Dr. Wyche's Yellow (which we are also growing) were named in his honor. Though he called the tomato Hot Yellow and it was re-named after his death. The tomatillos are mostly yellow, with some purple blushing and have a sweet flavor. Picture from Seed Savers Exchange.
Warner's Produce
45146 Duck Rd
Montrose, South Dakota 57048
(605) 251-2512
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