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BLACK OVAL EGGPLANT

Fresh raw eggplants on a wooden table

History

Black eggplant, a large, dark purple, meaty, and tasty eggplant that is almost a century old, is the standard eggplant variety. A standard variety that has been grown in gardens all over the world since 1902 was introduced by Burpee.

The large size, delicate flavor, and surprisingly early maturation for such a large eggplant make the black oval eggplant highly valued.

Fresh raw eggplants on a wooden table

Fun Facts

Black eggplant, a large, dark purple, meaty, and tasty eggplant that is almost a century old, is the standard eggplant variety. A standard variety that has been grown in gardens all over the world since 1902 was introduced by Burpee.

The large size, delicate flavor, and surprisingly early maturation for such a large eggplant make the black oval eggplant highly valued.

Fresh raw eggplants on a wooden table next to knife
Healthy vegan salad with grilled vegetables, paprika, zucchini, eggplant with fresh tomatoes and mixed herbs. White table background, top view

Health Benefits

Researchers have studied the effects of eggplant juice on weight loss and cholesterol reduction. It has been suggested that antioxidants found in dark skin in black eggplant may be anticancer. 

Potassium, folic acid, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, and niacin are all present in black eggplant. In addition, it is a good source of dietary fiber and antioxidants.

Healthy vegan salad with grilled vegetables, paprika, zucchini, eggplant with fresh tomatoes and mixed herbs. White table background, top view

When to Plant Black Oval Eggplant

When the soil has warmed up and there is no more a chance of frost, late spring or early summer would be the ideal time to grow black beauty eggplant. Normally, this occurs from late April through early May. For growing Black beauty eggplants, the recommended temperature range is between 75°F and 85°F (24°C and 29°C).

If you plan to sow the seeds directly in the garden, sow them about 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) deep and space them about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) apart in rows that are spaced 24 to 36 inches (45 to 91cm). Black eggplant should be grown in an area with direct sun exposure and organically rich, well-draining soil.

Closeup of a eggplant on a bush in a garden
Young woman harvesting eggplant in the garden

Harvesting

Black eggplants can be harvested in the months from late July to early October. Black eggplants typically require 70 to 85 days to mature from planting to harvest. 

Companion plants for Black Oval Eggplant

The best companion plants for black oval eggplants are peas, beans, peppers, potatoes, and tomatoes.

Young woman harvesting eggplant in the garden

Summary

Black oval eggplant is a standard eggplant variety that has been grown in gardens since 1902. It has a large size, delicate flavor, and early maturation for such a large eggplant. Health benefits include weight loss and cholesterol reduction, and antioxidants found in dark skin may be anticancer. Black eggplant should be grown in an area with direct sun exposure and organically rich, well-draining soil. Companion plants for black oval eggplant include peas, beans, peppers, potatoes, and tomatoes.

Black oval eggplant on a wooden plate

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