• Black tomatoes come in many varieties.zebra tomatoes - 2 image by William Berry from Fotolia.com
  
  Black tomatoes originated in southern Ukraine, but are commonly believed to be from Russia. They were brought through Russia in the nineteenth century by soldiers returning from war. Eventually, the seeds were distributed abroad. The skin color of black tomatoes is actually a deep purple rather than black. The method of growing them equal to that of the red varieties, although the taste of black tomatoes is said to be earthier. There are over 50 varieties of black tomatoes.
  
  

Black Krim

• Black Krim is a popular variety of black tomato from the island of Krim on the Crimean Sea. This plant produces medium to large sized fruits with a slightly salty taste. The plants can reach six feet in height and need support to prevent them from collapsing. Black Krim is an heirloom plant, which means it is more prone to disease than a cultivated tomato plant. The fruits can suffer from cracked skin, before they become ripe. Black Krim is usually purple in color, but can have green tops.
  
  

Carbon

• Carbon tomatoes are an heirloom species, that produces medium to large sized fruit with brown-purple skin and dark red flesh. The fruits can weigh up to 12 ounces and are generally round in shape. Carbon's taste is sweet, while the texture is firm and meaty. The yield from this plant appears to be inconsistent. The plant grow to over six feet and is and suitable for greenhouse and outdoor planting. Carbon tomato plants produce fruits mid-season. They are susceptible to disease, and the fruit may suffer from cracking.
  
  

Black Prince

• The black prince variety of tomato originated in Siberia. The plant produces a prolific yield of fruit on the vine. This black tomato plant is suited for indoor or outdoor cultivation, although it can grow to around six feet. Black prince produces fruits which grow around two to three ounces and have a fruity flavor. They can be cooked or eaten raw. This black tomato plant boasts deep purple skins and brown flesh. This species of tomato is an heirloom variety and is not disease resistant.
  
  

Black Cherry

• Black cherry tomatoes are similar in appearance to traditional cherry tomatoes. This variety produces perfectly round fruits with purple skin and dark red flesh. The flavor is sweet and smokey. This tomato strain produces good yields on large plants, which can be grown outdoors or under glass. The plants need sun and require support, particularly for the side shoots. The fruits mature early in the season and are resistant to splitting.