Eggplant - Solanum melongena (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

Eggplant

Also known as: Asian Eggplant, Thai Eggplant, Aubergine, Berendjena

Eggplant (*Solanum melongena*) is a plant species related to nightshade and native to India. Eggplant is grown worldwide for its edible purple fruit. The spongy and absorbent fruit is a staple in Eastern cuisines. This plant is known as "brinjal" in South Africa and Asia, while the British call it 'aubergine'.

Scientific classification

Species

Eggplant (Solanum melongena)

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

1 m

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

3 cm to 4 cm

Flower Size

Green, Purple, White, Black, Yellow, Gold, Lavender

Fruit Color

Purple, White

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Eggplant

Distribution of Eggplant

Distribution Map

Eggplant is native to East Asia, Africa and parts of South America. It is cultivated widely across the world as a food crop. Its preferred ecosystem is a temperate climate with little to no frost.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Cultivated Beds

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Economic Value

Eggplant is a good economic product.

Garden Use

Eggplant is a popular addition to many vegetable gardens, given the myriad culinary options for preparing the mature fruit. It couples well with tomatoes and others from the nightshade family, but gardeners should be sure to rotate planting with non-solanaceous crops.

Symbolism

True

Interesting Facts

In Japan, it is said that it is lucky to dream of eggplant because eggplant was an expensive vegetable in Japan many years ago, and only the rich could eat. So it is lucky to dream of eggplant.

Name Story

Eggplant: The name eggplant is common in North American English and Australian English. First recorded in 1763, the word "eggplant" was originally applied to white cultivars, which look very much like hen's eggs. Hence, this white cultivar is called an eggplant.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Eggplant, including the following common varieties :

Eggplant 'Black Beauty'Eggplant 'Moneymaker'

Toxicity

Eggplant leaves and tubers contain toxic solanine, causing nausea, vomiting, and potentially deadly arrhythmia. The fruit has smaller amounts, with nasunin affecting iron absorption and oxalates causing kidney stones. Eggplant is moderately toxic to cats and dogs if they ingest stems, leaves, or unripe fruit, leading to gastrointestinal issues. Prompt veterinary care is crucial if poisoning occurs in pets. Keep eggplant away from small children and pets.

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Quickly Identify Eggplant

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

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Care Guide for Eggplant

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Eggplant thrives in moderate climates with consistently moist soil but can endure brief dry spells. It requires watering twice a week for optimal growth. Proper irrigation is crucial during the growing season to prevent issues like blossom-end rot caused by inconsistent watering.

Fertilize: Fertilizing eggplant with high phosphorus during flowering boosts fruit set, while balanced nutrition fosters growth. Apply fertilizer every 2-3 weeks, using ¼ rate for young eggplant. Reduce fertilization in winter, utilize compost or 5-10-5 synthetic options, and avoid over-fertilization to prevent damage.

Pruning: Eggplant, notable for its glossy, purple fruit, thrives with mid-spring pruning to boost growth and yields. Techniques include removing lower leaves and suckers for better air circulation. Use sterilized tools to prevent disease and enhance the plant's structure and productivity.

Propagation: Eggplant propagates by sowing seeds in Spring. While propagation may present moderate difficulty, successful germination is evident through healthy seedlings. For optimal results, stratify seeds and maintain consistent moisture levels.

Repotting: Repot eggplant in early spring after dormancy to promote growth. Repot every 2-3 years using a deep pot for root support. Post-repotting, provide ample sunlight and consistent watering for recovery and fruit development. Eggplant thrives in spacious conditions.

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Images of Eggplant

Distribution of Eggplant

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Eggplant

Care Guide for Eggplant

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