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Tomatillos |
By Robert Cox, Colorado State University Cooperative Extension, Horticulture
The tomatillo is a relative of tomato, pepper, eggplant and
potato. Some garden centers sell them. One plant should be sufficient;
plant it in
full sun and allow it 3-4 feet in all directions.
Tomatillo grows quickly in a warm spot and develops attractive yellow flowers. These are followed by a "Chinese lantern" husk, in which the fruit develops.
Wait to pick until the fruit is as large as the husk or when it grows large enough to split the husk. Earlier-picked tomatillos are light green and tart, later-picked ones are more yellowish-green and sweeter, about 2 inches in diameter. Tomatillos can be used in sauces, salsa verde or in tomato-based salsas.
Photos: Judy Sedbrook
