When Tomatoes Were Wild and Free

These photos show a modern tomato (on the left) compared with one grown from 150-year-old seeds (on the right).

Over time, tomatoes have been selectively bred to have a more uniform shape, smoother skin, and often higher yield.

Older (heirloom) varieties can be larger, more irregular in shape, and may have distinct coloring or cracking, but they often come with different flavors or nutritional profiles.