Solanum melongena

Introduced in 1902, the black beauty eggplant has large purple fruit with excellent flavour. Fruits are deep purple/black, glossy, and oblong. This is a great variety for our short seasons in the Outaouais. 

Eggplants typically need a lot of heat, but I grew these out in the field, without plastic covering, and with straw mulch at its base.  It produced some beautiful eggplants.  I will keep growing this variety and hopefully improve on its adaptability to our natural rugged conditions. 

80 days to maturity from transplant. 

25 seeds per pack.

Seed starting:

These are heat loving plants. Start indoors 6-10 weeks before the last frost (depending on your region), and sow 1/4 inch deep. Keep the soil warm and moist. Pot up to a larger pot once the true leaves appear. Transplant outside in your garden once all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed.  Mulch heavily with organic matter (straw is a great option). 

Companion plants: calendula, marigolds, mint and peas.