Tomatillo Queen of Malinalco seeds (Phylasis ixocarpa)

Tomatillo Queen of Malinalco Seeds

💰 Price: Package of 10 seeds

The Tomatillo Queen of Malinalco (Phylasis ixocarpa) is an old and rare variety originating from Malinalco, a town in southwestern Mexico. While often called the Mexican husk tomato, it’s not a true tomato but is closely related to the pineapple cherry. 🌿🍅 This larger and sweeter variety stands out for its exotic flavor and larger size compared to other tomatillos.

The plant is bushy, reaching a height of 180-200 cm, and produces fruits surrounded by a thin, lantern-shaped membrane. This membrane starts green and turns brown and translucent when the fruit is ripe. The fruits ripen from green to light yellow, and their round to elongated shape makes them visually striking. The flesh inside is sweet, juicy, and has an exceptional citrus aftertaste that sets it apart from other tomatillo varieties. 🍊

This variety is particularly renowned for its sweetness, making it perfect for salsas, salads, fruit desserts, and compotes. It is also used to make Salsa Verde with chilies for an authentic Mexican dish. 🌶️🍽️

How to Grow Tomatillo Queen of Malinalco

1. Sowing Instructions

   • Sowing Time: Start seeds indoors in March.

   • Transplanting: Transplant seedlings in April when temperatures are stable and after the risk of frost has passed. 🌞

   • Sowing Depth: Plant seeds about 1 cm deep in well-draining soil. 🌱

   • Germination Temperature: 18-25°C (64-77°F) is ideal for seed germination. 🌡️

   • Germination Time: Usually 2-4 weeks depending on conditions. 🌱

2. Planting Location

   • Sunlight Requirements: Full sun. 🌞

   • Space: These plants can grow quite large, so ensure ample space between them (around 60 cm apart) for optimal growth. 🌿

   • Support: Provide firm support to prevent the plants from falling over as they grow tall and heavy with fruits. A trellis or stake can be useful. 🪴

3. Soil and Watering Needs

   • Soil Type: Prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Loamy or sandy soil is ideal for healthy growth. 🌍

   • Watering: Water regularly but ensure the soil is not waterlogged. Tomatillos need consistent moisture, especially during the fruiting stage. 💧

4. Plant Growth and Maintenance

   • Height: The plant can grow to about 180-200 cm tall, so it's crucial to provide proper staking or support. 🌳

   • Pruning: Minimal pruning required, but removing any dead or diseased foliage will help the plant stay healthy. ✂️

   • Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth, especially during the early stages. 🌱

Harvesting Tomatillos

1. Harvest Time: The tomatillos are ready to harvest in August when the membrane turns translucent and the fruit changes color from green to yellow. 🌟

   • Ripe Fruit: The ripe fruits will often fall off the plant on their own. If they’re still attached, carefully twist and remove them. 🍅

2. Post-Harvest: After harvesting, the membrane will remain around the fruit, keeping it fresh and protected. The fruit is best used fresh, but can also be preserved in jars or made into salsa or compote. 🍽️

Uses of Tomatillo Queen of Malinalco

1. Salsa Verde
   The sweet and tangy flavor makes this tomatillo perfect for Salsa Verde. Combine with chilies, garlic, onions, and lime for a delicious Mexican condiment. 🌶️🍅

2. Salads
   Fresh tomatillos add a zesty, citrusy note to salads and can be paired with avocado, cilantro, and lime for an authentic taste. 🥗🍋

3. Fruit Desserts
   Due to its sweet and slightly tart flavor, this variety is excellent for fruit desserts like tarts, pies, or compotes. 🍏🍯

4. Salsas and Compotes
   The sweetness of this tomatillo makes it ideal for cooking into salsas or compotes to pair with meats, poultry, or even desserts. 🍗🍯

5. Cooking
   Use them in soups, stews, or grilled dishes for a tangy and flavorful addition. 🍲🍽️

Benefits and Characteristics of Tomatillo Queen of Malinalco

1. Exotic Flavor
   The sweet-sour flavor with a citrus aftertaste makes it a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. 🍋🍅

2. Large Fruits
   The larger size of this tomatillo, compared to other varieties, makes it easier to use for cooking, and it produces a high yield of fruit. 🌿🍏

3. Health Benefits
   Tomatillos are rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a great addition to a healthy diet. 🧑‍🍳💪

4. Culinary Versatility
   From salsas to fruit desserts, this variety adds unique flavor and depth to many different dishes. 🍽️🌶️

Conclusion

The Tomatillo Queen of Malinalco is a rare and special variety with a sweet, tangy, and citrusy flavor that stands out from other tomatillo varieties. Ideal for Mexican salsas, salads, and fruit-based desserts, this versatile plant is a must-have for gardeners and cooks looking to add an exotic touch to their culinary creations. 🌿🍅✨