Green Zebra

Tomato

Zone 9b Save Garden

🌱 80d to harvest Indeterminate

Tart-sweet and vividly aromatic, Green Zebra delivers a bright, tangy bite wrapped in a tender, juicy flesh. At maturity, its ova…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Dec 22nd
Last Frost	Feb 9th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Apr 6th
Harvest Begins	Jun 25th
Harvest Ends	Dec 9th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	80
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Indeterminate
Support Needed	Stake
Planting Depth	Deep
Germination Temp (°F)	75
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	10

Recommended Companions

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most often affects Physalis philadelphica (Green Zebra tomatillo), and how do I control it?

Watch for early blight (brown target-like spots on leaves) and leaf spot, which can explode during humid spells and dense foliage. Remove and discard affected leaves, thin plants for airflow, and apply a labeled fungicide such as chlorothalonil or a copper-based product at first signs and again according to the label. Also avoid overhead watering and water at the base to keep foliage dry.

How often should I water Green Zebra tomatillo during peak growth?

During active fruiting, keep soil evenly moist—about 1–2 inches of water per week total, adjusted for heat and rainfall. Water deeply when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry, and don’t let it swing from bone-dry to soaked because tomatillo foliage and fruits can suffer and disease risk increases. Use mulch to stabilize moisture, especially in full sun.

How can I tell when Physalis philadelphica fruits are ready to harvest?

Harvest when the paper husk turns tight and straw-to-green (often a bit more yellowed), and the fruit inside fills the husk. Fruits should be firm and have reached their full size; if the husk is loose and the berry is still small, wait. In general, expect harvest starting around day ~80, with ongoing picks as husks mature.

Tart-sweet and vividly aromatic, Green Zebra delivers a bright, tangy bite wrapped in a tender, juicy flesh. At maturity, its oval fruit wears bold lime-green stripes over a creamy green base, with a silky, sliceable texture that shines in fresh salads and vibrant salsas. Grow for standout color and flavor—these 80-day plants reward careful attention with a steady harvest of striking slicing tomatoes.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 10 days first.

Expert Note

Start seeds indoors early and transplant only when nighttime temps are reliably warm (not just past frost) to prevent chilling stress.