Solanum lycopersicum aka Garden Tomato

The tomato, scientifically known as Solanum lycopersicum, is an edible berry that originated in western South America, Mexico, and Central America. The word "tomate" in Spanish and "tomato" in English derived from the Mexican Nahuatl word "tomatl." Indigenous peoples of Mexico may have been the first to domesticate and use tomatoes as cultivated food. The Aztecs incorporated tomatoes into their cuisine, and when the Spanish encountered tomatoes during the conquest of the Aztec Empire, they introduced the plant to Europe through the Columbian exchange. Since then, tomatoes have spread to other parts of the European-colonized world. Although botanically classified as berries, tomatoes are commonly used as vegetables in cooking. They provide a significant source of umami flavor and can be consumed raw or cooked in various dishes, sauces, salads, and drinks. Tomato plants, which typically require support due to their weak stems, can reach heights of 1-3 meters. While indeterminate tomato plants are perennials, they are usually grown as annuals. Greenhouses allow for year-round tomato production in temperate climates. Tomato cultivars come in different sizes, ranging from 1-10 cm in width. One example is a cordon tomato that produces abundant crops of yellow, pear-shaped cherry tomatoes, suitable for greenhouse or outdoor cultivation. Growing tomatoes is a rewarding and enjoyable activity that yields fresh, nutritious fruits with superior taste compared to store-bought ones. Tomatoes thrive in full sun and can be grown in various varieties, such as cherry, plum, and beefsteak, each offering its own distinct shape, flavor, and culinary use.