The tomato peppers, also known as Capsicum annuum var. annuum, go by several names. One of the most common names for this heirloom variety is the Hungarian tomato pepper. This name likely originates from its introduction to Wisconsin by the Hussli family, who brought the seeds from Hungary in 1912. The tomato pepper is also referred to as Kalman’s tomato pepper, named after a specific variety or grower. Another name for this pepper is the Beaver Dam tomato pepper, which could be a reference to a specific location where it was grown or cultivated.
Personally, I have come across the term tomato pepper mainly in gardening and culinary contexts. It is interesting to note that the name “tomato pepper” combines two different vegetables, the tomato and the pepper. This could be due to the similarities in shape and size between the two, as well as the fact that both belong to the same plant family, Solanaceae.
In my experience, I have found that different regions and cultures may have their own unique names for this variety of pepper. For example, in some areas, it may be simply referred to as a Hungarian pepper or Hungarian wax pepper. These regional variations in nomenclature add to the diversity and richness of the gardening and culinary world.
To summarize, the tomato pepper, scientifically known as Capsicum annuum var. annuum, is also called the Hungarian tomato pepper, Kalman’s tomato pepper, Beaver Dam tomato pepper, and occasionally Hungarian wax pepper. The various names highlight the pepper’s origins, specific varieties, and regional associations.
