Heirloom variety
An old variety of crop that has been saved and handed down by growers for generations.
Also: heritage variety, heritage breed, landrace
Heirloom varieties are open-pollinated, which means their seeds can be saved and will grow into plants like the parent. They were kept going by families and communities, often for flavour or for how well they suit one locality. Modern commercial varieties are bred more for yield, uniform size and the ability to survive transport. Heirloom tomatoes, beans, apples, maize and rice are known for wide differences in colour, shape and taste. The matching term for livestock is heritage breed.