Grape Tomato vs Cherry Tomato: Is There a Difference?

Written by August Croft
Updated: September 19, 2022
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Whether you are growing them in your own garden or simply have an interest in salad toppings, there are a number of differences between a grape tomato vs cherry tomato. The answer may surprise you, but these are indeed two different types of tomatoes, with slightly different uses and flavors. But what might some of those differences be, and how can you learn how to tell them apart?

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

Grape Tomato vs Cherry Tomato
The shape of the cherry tomato is rounded, while the shape of the grape tomato is ovular.
Grape TomatoCherry Tomato
ClassificationSolanum lycopersicumSolanum cerasiforme
DescriptionOblong and shaped like a grape is, with tough, crisp skin and a meatier texture. Not too sweet, with a traditional tomato texture and flavorCompletely round with delicate skin and juicy flesh. Often sweet and less acidic, compared to regular tomatoes, with a watery texture and delicious raw flavor
UsesUsed anywhere that tomatoes are typically used, but ideal for sandwiches, salads, and anywhere you need a bit of tomato! Often easier to find compared to cherry tomatoesUsed anywhere that tomatoes are typically used, but ideally eaten raw. Perfect for salads and side dishes, adding a sweet juiciness to any dish! More difficult to find compared to grape tomatoes given their delicate flesh
Hardiness and CareHardy in zones 2-10; light for 6-8 hours per day and soil moist; avoid watering leavesHardy in zones 2-11; light for 6-8 hours per day and soil evenly moist; avoid watering leaves
Special FeaturesThick skin and texture makes this tomato easier to ship and distribute!Can be tricky to grow, but their flavor outlasts the growing season when kept unfrozen!

Key Differences Between Grape Tomato vs Cherry Tomato

Grape Tomato vs Cherry Tomato

The skin of the grape tomato is tougher compared to the skin of the cherry tomato.

©iStock.com/CobraCZ

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

Grape Tomato vs Cherry Tomato

Grape tomatoes are more widely distributed compared to cherry tomatoes given their hardiness while shipping.

©iStock.com/angelsimon

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

Grape Tomato vs Cherry Tomato

Grape tomatoes have a similar flavor to traditional tomatoes, while cherry tomatoes are sweeter on average compared to both grape tomatoes and traditional tomatoes. 

©iStock.com/Grahamphoto23

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

Cherry tomatoes have a higher water content and juicier flesh compared to the average grape tomato.

©iStock.com/ittipon2002

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! 

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/Grahamphoto23


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About the Author

August Croft is a writer at A-Z Animals where their primary focus is on astrology, symbolism, and gardening. August has been writing a variety of content for over 4 years and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Theater from Southern Oregon University, which they earned in 2014. They are currently working toward a professional certification in astrology and chart reading. A resident of Oregon, August enjoys playwriting, craft beer, and cooking seasonal recipes for their friends and high school sweetheart.

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