How to identify Eggplant (Solanum melongena)
Eggplant, also known as Asian Eggplant, Thai Eggplant, Aubergine, Berendjena
Eggplant appears as a robust, bushy herb reaching heights of 2 to 4 feet (60 to 120 cm), with an equivalent spread in its branching habit. Its leaves are notable for their star-shaped hairs, while the violet flowers also display a star-like form. The most distinctive feature of eggplant is its large, fleshy fruit that exhibits a shiny, glossy surface; fruit color may vary by cultivar. This member of the Solanaceae family thrives in warmer climates, preferring temperatures from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 29 degrees Celsius).
Lifespan: Perennial, Annual
Plant Type: Herb
Leaf Type: Deciduous
Star-shaped hairs on leaves and stems
Vibrant purple, star-shaped flowers with yellow center
Egg-shaped, glossy fruit reaching 4-8 inches
Leaves ovate to oblong, with sinuate lobes
Robust, bushy herb with woody, branching stems
The leaves of eggplant are bright green or sometimes have a purplish tinge, classified as simple and alternate. They are ovate to oblong, measuring about 8 inches (20 cm) long and 4 inches (10 cm) wide, with margins that are entire or feature 5-9 sinuate lobes. The leaf surface is covered with star-shaped hairs and some leaves bear prickles. The petioles are 1 to 3 inches (2.5 to 7.6 cm) long.
The flowers of eggplant are vibrant purple and shaped like a funnel. Each bloom consists of 5-6 pointed lobes, giving it a distinctive star-shaped appearance. At the center of the flower is a bright yellow section, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. These flowers typically grow in clusters, adding to their visual impact. The individual flowers can measure up to 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. They usually emit a faint, pleasant scent and bloom during the warmer months of the year.
The stems of eggplant are characterized by a covering of star-shaped hairs and occasional prickles. As they mature, the stems become moderately woody, with a green to slightly purplish hue. They typically exhibit a sturdy texture and range from 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) in height. The stems are robust, branching occasionally in a non-uniform pattern, contributing to the plant’s bushy appearance, and serving as a key identification feature.
The fruit of eggplant is typically an egg-shaped berry, boasting a smooth and glossy surface. It spans a length of approximately 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 cm). Immature fruits flaunt a variety of hues, from green and white to deep purple-black, the latter indicating the preferred stage for consumption. Upon maturity, the fruit tends to develop a stringy texture and a bitter taste. Inside, it houses an abundance of small, flat seeds, which bear a pale yellow to brown coloration.
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Scientific Classification of Eggplant
