What Plants Are Tomatoes Related To?

Tomatoes are one of the most popular fruits used in cooking across the globe. They are loved for their versatility, festive color and juicy flavor. But have you ever wondered what other plants are related to tomatoes? In this article, we will explore the family history of tomatoes and learn which plants they are related to within the same plant family.

The Family of Tomatoes

The scientific name for the family of plants that includes tomatoes is Solanaceae. It is also known as the nightshade family. This family includes thousands of species of plants, including some that are edible and others that are poisonous. Members of the Solanaceae family share some physical characteristics, such as having flowers with five points and typically containing poisonous properties. Despite their similarities, plants in this family can have vastly different uses and effects on humans.

Related Plants to Tomatoes

Many plants that are related to tomatoes are also in the solanaceae family. Here are some examples:

Potatoes

Even though potatoes are not commonly used in the same dishes as tomatoes, they share a genus name with tomatoes. Both potatoes and tomatoes belong to the genus Solanum. This is likely one of the closest plant relatives of the tomato plant.

Eggplants

Eggplants are also in the Solanum genus. They share more physical characteristics with tomatoes than with potatoes, including their fruit-like shape and edible seeds. This makes them more commonly used in similar dishes, such as in eggplant parmesan or as a substitute for tomatoes in a pasta sauce.

Petunias

While not an edible plant, petunias are still in the same family as tomatoes. They are often grown for their colorful blooms and are used in landscaping and as potted plants. Petunias and tomatoes both have sticky hairs on their leaves and stems to repel pests.

Peppers

The genus Capsicum is the group of plants that includes peppers. This is yet another related plant to tomatoes. Peppers are often used in the same dishes as tomatoes, most famously in salsa. They also share some physical characteristics with tomatoes, such as having a hollow cavity inside the fruit.

Why Understanding Plant Relationships Matters

Knowing which plants are related to each other can be helpful in determining which plants grow well together, as well as which ones might not. For example, since tomatoes and potatoes are related, they are susceptible to many of the same pests and diseases. Planting them in the same garden bed can increase the likelihood of spreading disease between the two plants. However, if you have a healthy tomato plant, it can be used as a trap crop for potato beetles since both plants have similar foliage and color.

Additionally, understanding plant relationships can also help in crossbreeding plants. Since tomatoes and potatoes are so closely related, it may be possible to crossbreed them to create a new variety of plant that has the desirable qualities of both plants.

Conclusion

Tomatoes are a beloved fruit that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to sauces to salsas. While they may seem unique, tomatoes are actually part of a wider plant family known as solanaceae, which includes many other species of edible and ornamental plants. By understanding the family history of tomatoes, we can better appreciate both the unique qualities of this fruit and the connections it shares with other plants.