Eggplant – Solanum melongena
Family Solanaceae (Nightshade family)
Plant Description
Eggplant is a member of the nightshade family, related to tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes. American varieties are oblong or globular with a dark purple skin. Japanese varieties are slender and elongated with a thin, darker purple skin. Chinese varieties are long, slender, cylindrical and less purple. Italian varieties are short and wide with a thick skin. Common varieties grown in California include the American Black Bell, Japanese Millionaire, and Italian Little Finger.
Cultural Tips
Cultural practices such as proper site selection, soil preparation, planting, and watering are important for plant health, pest management and pest reduction when growing eggplant.
For more information about growing vegetables, visit the UC ANR California Garden Web website.
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