Solanum melongena
Solanum melongena
Eggplant
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Taxonomy
Family Solanaceae · Genus Solanum
Common Names
EggplantAubergineBrinjal
Context
nativeRegion
South and Southeast Asia.
usdaZones
9–12 as a perennial; grown as an annual in cooler zones.
companionPlants
Beans, Peppers, Marigold, Basil
culturalUses
Widely cultivated for edible fruit (eggplant/aubergine), a staple in cuisines of Asia, Mediterranean, and Middle East.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun; requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
WateringKeep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water deeply and regularly, especially during fruiting.
SoilRich, well-draining loamy soil with pH of 5.5–7.2.
FertilizerFeed with balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during active growth and fruiting stages.
HumidityPrefers moderate humidity; avoid overhead watering to reduce risk of disease.
TemperatureWarm temperatures between 21–30°C (70–86°F); frost-sensitive.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitErect, bushy perennial (commonly grown as an annual).
Mature Size60–120 cm (2–4 ft) tall, 45–60 cm (1.5–2 ft) wide.
Growth RateModerate growth rate.
BloomingSmall purple flowers appear in late spring to summer, followed by fruits.
DormancyNo true dormancy when grown as an annual; growth slows in cold weather.
Propagation
MethodsSeeds, Cuttings (less common)
DifficultyEasy from seed, moderate via cuttings.
Best SeasonLate winter to early spring (indoors), after last frost outdoors.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningPinch young plants to encourage branching; remove old or diseased stems.
RepottingNot usually necessary unless container-grown; transplant seedlings when large enough to handle.
Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to aphids, flea beetles, spider mites, and diseases like verticillium wilt, blight, and powdery mildew.
ToxicityLeaves and unripe fruit are toxic if ingested due to solanine.
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