What is the smell of tomato?
Emily Schmidt
Updated on April 12, 2026
Tomatoes are known for the earthy, spicy odor of the green foliage that is distinct to the species. People seem divided on whether that scent is pleasant or off-putting. As it turns out, the pungent aroma is thought to be part of the plant's defenses against pests and disease.
What is the smell of tomato fruit?
It isn't easy to describe the smell of a tomato plant, but if you know it, you'll recognize it immediately. The smell is grassy and green but also a little spicy and sweet.What is the smell tomato plants give off?
The aroma emitted from green leaves, sometimes referred to among plant scientists as a sweet, "green" fragrance, has been the subject of research for many years. Now enzymes have been discovered that convert the grassy smell into a sweeter scent.What does a ripe tomato smell like?
Sniff your tomato for a heady perfume(Be careful not to confuse the smell of the vine or stem itself, as that's wicked strong, and, to me, off-putting.) Some farmers describe it as “sweet.” Others call it “woodsy.” To me, a ripe, just-picked tomato has a slight ketchup-y aroma.