The tomato (Solanum lycopersicum cap) is a berry fruit that is a member of the nightshade family. Tomatoes are usually red, but they can also be yellow, orange, green, or purple. They are eaten as a vegetable and are a key part of the human diet.
Physical description
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- Tomatoes are usually large and rounded but can also be oval, pear-shaped, or elongate.
- They can vary in diameter from 1.5 to 7.5 cm (0.6 to 3 inches) or more.
- Each tomato contains many small seeds surrounded by jelly-like pulp.
Plant description
- Tomato plants are annuals but can be perennials in frost-free climates.
- They can grow 3 to 10 feet tall and 1 to 4 feet wide.
- Tomato plants have glandular hairs that are very sticky.
- They require warm weather and lots of sunlight.
Nutrition
- Tomatoes are high in vitamin C and potassium.
- They also contain an antioxidant called lycopene, which may help prevent cancer.
Uses
- Tomatoes can be eaten raw, stewed, or processed into ketchup or tomato soup.
- Unripe green tomatoes can be breaded and fried, used to make salsa, or pickled.
- Tomato juice is sold as a drink and used in cocktails.
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