Solanum melongena

Eggplant is an annual or short-lived perennial plant that is very sensitive to cold temperatures. It grows fastest when the temperature ranges between 70 and 85 degrees. It produces an edible shiny glossy fruit. The plant may grow 2 to 4 feet tall and is multi-branched. The leaves and stems have star-shaped hairs, and the small violet flowers are also star-shaped. Eggplant or Aubergine is a member of the Solanaceae or nightshade family which also includes tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers.  It is grown primarily as a food crop.

This species is native to South Central China, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. The plant is grown as a perennial in South Asia. It is now cultivated worldwide. In North Carolina, eggplant is considered an annual. 

The genus name, Solanum, is from the Latin word solamen, which means "comforting or soothing." The species name, melongena, references the fruits melon shape. Another source states that the species name, melongena, has origins from the Italian name "melanzane," which is derived from "mela insane" or "mad apple."

The eggplant grows best in full sun. It prefers moist, well-drained, fertile, sandy, and loamy soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.8. It is propagated by seeds and germination occurs in 8 -12 days. The fruits may be harvested in about 105-133 days. The plant's flowers attract bumblebees.

The leaves and stems are covered with star-shaped hairs and sometimes prickles. The flowers are solitary, star-shaped, and usually violet in color. The fruit is a large fleshy smooth berry. The fruit color varies from white, green, or purple to black depending on the cultivar. The fruit has many pale brown kidney-shaped seeds. 

If you consider growing eggplant in your vegetable garden, caution should be taken to protect children and pets.

The fruits and seeds are edible; however, the remainder of the plant is poisonous. The fruits should not be consumed raw. Preferably, they should be baked, stewed, or fried. The flowers, leaves, and roots of the plant are toxic and should not be consumed. See below. 

Quick ID Hints:

• star-shaped hair on the leaves and stems
• star-shaped violet flowers
• large fleshy, shiny, glossy fruits varying in color depending on the cultivar

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Flea beetles, tomato hornworms, Colorado potato beetles, and cutworms are potential pests. Verticillium wilt can occur. It is best prevented by planting disease-resistant cultivars and rotation of crops.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common eggplant pests and insects.