Growers’ Notes and Photos (USDA Zones 8 Experience)
This is a low-growing dwarf bush, reaching no more than 14-16 inches (35-40 cm) tall. It is incredibly low-maintenance. In the green stage, the tomatoes are dark green with distinct stripes. Once ripe, they turn a light red color with pale vertical stripes. The fruits weigh about 2.1-3.5 oz (60-100 g), and their shape is slightly elongated with a cute little beak on the blossom end.
They have medium density, and for us, the flavor was definitely above average. It is a mid-season variety. We didn’t pull any suckers, so it just sprawled out sideways into a wide little bush. The blossom clusters are simple, but the fruit set is excellent.
These photos were taken in mid-September, and the plant was grown under cover. This line originally comes from Denis Terentyev in Donetsk, and the seeds made their way to me via another grower, Tomatinka.
Full Summary: Matroskin
- 🌿 Plant & Foliage: A very compact determinate/dwarf bush that rarely exceeds 14-16 inches (35-40 cm) in height. It requires virtually no maintenance or pruning. If left un-suckered, it will sprawl outward rather than upward, making it perfect for containers or small garden borders.
- 🍅 Fruit & Shape: Small to medium fruits weighing 2.1-3.5 oz (60-100 g). They are slightly elongated ovals ending in a pronounced little point or “beak.” Visually striking, they feature light red skin layered with distinct pale yellow vertical stripes.
- 📈 Yield & Health: A mid-season producer that sets fruit excellently despite having simple blossom clusters. It performs very well in high tunnels and under seasonal cover.
- 👅 Taste: Boasts a very good, above-average flavor for an early-to-mid-season dwarf. The flesh is of medium density, making it versatile for both fresh eating and processing.
“Matroskin” is a highly famous striped cat from the classic Soviet animated cartoon series Prostokvashino (his name literally translates to “Sailor-cat,” referencing a sailor’s striped undershirt). Eastern European tomato breeders frequently name striped varieties in his honor. The seed line mentioned here originates from Denis Terentyev, a well-known seed collector and breeder based in Donetsk.
