Hi everyone, sorry in advance for an essay!

Like many people, I got my intro to heirloom tomatoes through the Cherokee Purple. I've tried to grow it in the past from store bought plants, and once even from Craig the nctomatoman himself back when we both lived in Raleigh! However my two previous homes did not have the right conditions for vegetable growing and I have always failed to get fruit to eat, let alone save seeds from.

This year I have moved and have the space for some full-sun raised beds. I bought my tomato seeds from Burpee before I realized how many smaller seed-sellers existed. My Burpee Cherokee Purples are planted and growing but I am suddenly suspicious of them...apparently there are many cases of Cherokee Purples getting mixed up with other brown tomatoes, such as Black Krim. There's also speculation that different sources may have (intentionally or inadvertently) ended up with various, slightly different strains. Oh no!

I know I won't have any clue until I get fruit, but what are some ways I can be sure I have the real deal/original strain? Any specifics about color, appearance, or plant behavior to look out for? Anywhere in particular I should get my seeds from in the future if I'm underwhelmed by my current plants?

I know this probably doesn't have a real answer but thanks for some thoughts!

Exciting times to have space more hospitable to tomato growing, congrats!

Unfortunately, unless you've got something very different, I don't think you'll have any tips/hints until fruit set happens and fruits become large. Even then it really will take ripening and assessment of color and flavor. Ultimately if you've got something you're happy with then you're set, just save seeds! If you're suspicious I would source seeds for the variety from reputable places and/or trades here and grow a plant of each seed source out for comparisons.

Good luck with your tomatoes!