SHAKER'S LARGE RED (USA). A medium-early variety, red, with a distinctive ribbed and flattened shape. The plant reaches 0.7–1.2 meters in open ground. Each cluster typically contains 3–4 fruits weighing 170–250 grams. The fruits can curl around the stem in the shape of a moccasin or small boat.

When sliced, the tomato is slightly hollow inside, aromatic, with a sweet-and-sour, balanced tomato flavor with a pleasant tanginess. These deeply ribbed tomatoes look great when sliced for salads and sandwiches.

VARIETY HISTORY

Highly decorative and fantastically productive. This is one of the oldest family heirloom varieties from England and the USA, known since 1830. The fruits are of the beefsteak type—flat-round in shape, with large, pronounced ribs. It has a very good taste—sweet with a light tang. Some seed chambers are hollow, making the variety convenient for stuffing.

This very old open-pollinated tomato can reach a weight of up to 1 pound or more. With clearly defined ribs and a rich red color, it has excellent visual appeal—but the flavor is even better: a sweet, tangy, old-fashioned tomato taste. We love growing American heirloom varieties that existed even before the Civil War of 1861.

SIMILAR VARIETIES

Ribbed tomatoes have a grooved or wrinkled surface, which gives them an attractive appearance and a unique texture. These tomatoes—also known as “ribbed” or “corrugated”—feature pronounced ridges and indentations across the skin.

These types are often not only eye-catching but also very flavorful. Their irregular surface, with distinct ribs and grooves, adds visual interest. Yield may vary depending on the specific variety, but many ribbed tomatoes are highly productive. Here are a few ribbed tomato varieties you might enjoy:

• Costoluto Genovese – a classic Italian ribbed tomato with bright red color and a distinct sweet-and-sour flavor. Popular among chefs for its dense flesh and unique aroma.

• Zapotec Pink Pleated – an old Mexican variety with a delicate pink skin and deep ribbing. The flesh is sweet and aromatic, ideal for salads and sauces.

• Beefsteak – some types of this popular tomato also have ribbed structure and very meaty flesh. It's often used in sandwiches and for slicing due to its large size and juicy texture.

• Pink Giant – a Russian variety known for its large pink fruits with mild ribbing. Very flavorful and meaty, great for fresh eating or processing.

• Reisetomate – a unique variety with an unusual appearance, resembling a bunch of small tomatoes fused together. Perfect for snacks and decorative plating.

• Striped Cavern – a ribbed tomato with striped coloring that is sometimes hollow, making it ideal for stuffing. It has a slightly sweet flavor and a pleasant texture.

BUY SHAKER'S LARGE RED SEEDS

These varieties are perfect for fresh salads as well as canning. Ribbed tomatoes are great both for decorative presentation and for adding variety to your cooking. Orders can be placed through the store's website.