In this article, we will address everything you need to know about grape tomatoes and cherry tomatoes so that you can understand both of these varieties to their fullest. We will address what they look like as well as what they taste like, and let you know how to care for them and where they taste best. Let’s get started and learn all about tomatoes now! 

Comparing Grape Tomato vs Cherry Tomato

Key Differences Between Grape Tomato vs Cherry Tomato

There are a number of key differences between grape tomatoes and cherry tomatoes. For example, the shape of the cherry tomato is rounded, while the shape of the grape tomato is ovular. The skin of the grape tomato is tougher compared to the skin of the cherry tomato. Finally, grape tomatoes are more widely distributed compared to cherry tomatoes given their hardiness while shipping.  Let’s take a look at all of these differences in more detail now. 

Grape Tomato vs Cherry Tomato: Classification

You may not have known that grape tomatoes and cherry tomatoes are separate varieties of tomatoes, but they are indeed different from one another in terms of their scientific classification. For example, cherry tomatoes are classified as Solanum cerasiforme, while grape tomatoes are classified as Solanum lycopersicum. 

Grape Tomato vs Cherry Tomato: Description

There are some physical differences between grape tomatoes and cherry tomatoes that you may not have realized. For example, the primary shape of the grape tomato differs from the cherry tomato in that it is oblong, while cherry tomatoes are round. Both of these tomatoes come in a number of colors and shades, but the skin of the grape tomato is thicker than the skin of the cherry tomato.  In addition to having a more delicate skin, cherry tomatoes have a higher water content and juicier flesh compared to the average grape tomato. Finally, grape tomatoes have a similar flavor to traditional tomatoes, while cherry tomatoes are sweeter on average compared to both grape tomatoes and traditional tomatoes. 

Grape Tomato vs Cherry Tomato: Uses

You can use grape tomatoes and cherry tomatoes interchangeably in recipes that call for any type of tomato. However, there are some differences in the traditional uses of both of these petite tomato varieties. For example, grape tomatoes are a great substitute for regular tomatoes in cooked recipes, while cherry tomatoes are best eaten raw.  However, both of these tomato varieties are great in salads, on sandwiches, and in a roasted or cooked capacity. Overall, cherry tomatoes are more difficult to find in grocery stores compared to grape tomatoes, given they are delicate flesh making it difficult to transport them. Depending on the season, you can likely find both of these options in your local store, but make sure to check the shape of the tomato to determine which type you are purchasing! 

Grape Tomato vs Cherry Tomato: Hardiness and Care

The care and hardness levels of both the grape tomato and the cherry tomato are almost identical to one another. However, the grape tomato grows best in hardiness zones 2 through 10, while you can grow cherry tomatoes in hardiness zones 2 through 11. Both of these plants need plenty of sunlight a day in order to produce their beautiful fruits, and you should plan on keeping the soil evenly moist, avoiding the leaves when you water. 

Grape Tomato vs Cherry Tomato: Special Features

There are special features to both grape tomatoes and cherry tomatoes, depending on what you are looking for. We have already addressed the fact that grape tomatoes are easier to ship compared to cherry tomatoes given their thick flesh and skin. However, cherry tomatoes also have their own special ability that grape tomatoes share to an extent.  Many people have found that cherry tomato varieties can be tricky to grow, especially compared to grape tomatoes, but the growing process is worth it. This is because cherry tomatoes tend to maintain their flavor and deliciousness long after the growing season ends!