Plump, glossy fruit in deep purple, white or striped, hanging from a sturdy, heat-loving bush. Needs a long warm season, so raise seedlings early indoors.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Mature size: 1 m tall
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Eggplant
Botanically, Solanum melongena is an moderate-growing edible plant in the Solanaceae family. It reaches around 1 m tall at maturity.
Where to grow Eggplant
Eggplant suits warm-temperate, subtropical and tropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Eggplant does best in free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Eggplant is regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Eggplant in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Eggplant in the garden
Eggplant earns its place for edible harvests and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Eggplant with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Eggplant
Plant Sale lists Eggplant as seed and seedlings. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Eggplant seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.