What would you like to plant in the garden? Maybe lettuce, tomatoes, eggplant? Of the latter, Chinese eggplant is increasingly popular, but do you know what it looks like and how it differs from traditional eggplant?
In this comprehensive article we show you in depth The characteristics, varieties, care and secrets of growing Chinese eggplant, an exotic vegetable that's conquering gardens and tables around the world thanks to its delicate flavor, versatility, and health benefits. Discover, step by step, how to grow it successfully, what varieties exist, tips, recommendations, and everything you need to know to obtain a bountiful, high-quality harvest.
What is Chinese eggplant like?
Chinese eggplant (Solanum melongena) is an Asian variety whose main difference from common eggplants is its much more elongated and thinner shape. Their skin usually has a light violet or deep purple color and is much finer and shinier, which makes it especially attractive in the kitchen. It also has fewer seeds than traditional eggplant, which translates into a much milder and less bitter taste, with a creamier and more delicate texture.
Why choose Chinese eggplant? In addition to its unique appearance and refined flavor, this vegetable is highly appreciated for its rapid growth and continued production throughout the warm season. Its thin skin does not need to be removed before cooking and it stands up very well to quick cooking, such as sautéing, frying, roasting, or steaming. It is very common in the Asian cuisine, especially Chinese and Japanese, where it is used in soups, stir-fries and stewed dishes.
Some of the names by which you can find this vegetable are: Asian eggplant, Japanese eggplant, Nasubi, Suriname eggplant, Ping Tung Long and others depending on the variety and country.
Main varieties of Chinese eggplant
There are numerous ones on the market varieties of Chinese eggplant, each with its own unique nuances in shape, color, and flavor. Among the most popular and appreciated are:
- Ping Tung Long: Very long fruits (they can exceed 30 cm), straight and thin, bright violet color and very tender flesh.
- Purple Excel: With great production and excellent yield, fine and elongated fruits of deep purple color.
- Fiancee: It has an attractive purple color with white stripes, a tubular and quite fleshy body.
- Purple Ma-Zu: Thin, almost black fruit, darker skin than other varieties.
- HK Long: Extra long purple color and delicate texture.
- Purple Charm and Purple Glitter: Very shiny skin, intense violet color.
- Asia Beauty Hybrid: Purple, sweet and very tender pulp.
- White Long Angle: With white skin and flesh, extra mild flavor and creamy texture.
- Purple Fengyuan: Traditional variety widely used in Chinese cuisine.
- Machiaw: Large fruits, thick and light lavender skin.
The diversity of shapes, colors, and shades of Chinese eggplants allows each producer or cook to choose the one that best suits their preferences or culinary needs. Are you interested in growing other exotic vegetables?
Benefits and properties of Chinese eggplant
Chinese eggplant not only stands out for its appearance and flavor, but also for its great health benefits:
- Rich in antioxidants: Its skin contains abundant anthocyanins and other compounds that protect cells from oxidative stress and help prevent premature aging.
- Cardiovascular support: Helps reduce LDL cholesterol levels and promotes good blood circulation.
- Fiber source: It promotes digestion, prevents constipation and keeps you feeling full for longer.
- Low in calories: Ideal for weight control diets, as it provides few calories and fats.
- Blood sugar regulation: Soluble fibers help keep glucose levels stable.
- Vitamins and minerals: Contains vitamin C, K, B6, potassium, magnesium and small amounts of other essential micronutrients.
How to grow Chinese eggplant in your garden
If you would like to incorporate this oriental jewel into your garden, we will detail the steps and tips to achieve a successful harvest of Chinese eggplant. In addition, it is advisable to consult the specific techniques for make successful urban gardens.
Choosing and obtaining seeds
Thanks to the popularization of horticulture and online exchanges, it is relatively easy to find Chinese eggplant seeds in specialized nurseries, online stores, or through exchange forums. It is important to acquire certified and fresh seeds to ensure a good germination rate and homogeneity in the crop.
If you already grow Chinese eggplant, you can collect your own seeds from ripe fruit: Remove the seeds, clean them and let them dry well before storing them in a dry, dark place. for next season.
Sowing and germination
Sowing is best done in protected seedbeds to ensure the necessary warmth for germination. Follow these recommendations:
- Sow the seeds 6-8 weeks before transplanting outdoors, when night temperatures are no longer cold.
- La optimal germination temperature is 22-28°C. The substrate should remain moist but never waterlogged.
- Lightly cover the seeds with soil and maintain good ventilation. Once the seedlings develop 2-3 true leaves, will be ready for transplant.
Transplanting and positioning in the garden
El transplant It should be done when temperatures are above 18-21°C and there is no risk of frost. It is important to choose a sunny, wind-protected location:
- Space between plants: Leave between 50 and 60 cm between each eggplant to allow for proper development and good aeration.
- Solar exposition: Chinese eggplant needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to grow optimally.
Ideal substrate conditions
This variety is quite demanding when it comes to soil. The ideal soil is a fertile and well-drained substrate, with a pH of 6.2 to 6.8, rich in organic matter. You can enhance the mix with compost, worm castings, and perlite or expanded clay, which helps retain moisture but prevents waterlogging around the roots.
Irrigation: frequency and recommendations
irrigation should be moderate but frequent, keeping the substrate always slightly moist but never waterlogged. It's best to use drip irrigation to avoid fungal diseases and excessive leaf wetting. During fruit formation, slightly increase the frequency to promote its development, avoiding the fruits touching the wet ground (they can rot).
It is very important to protect the elongated fruits from direct contact with the ground using tutors or tutored, which prevents the appearance of fungi and pests.
Fertilization and fertilization
If you use a new, nutrient-rich substrate, Chinese eggplant normally does not require large amounts of fertilizer, but a light amount of balanced fertilizer (a fertilizer low in excess nitrogen) will help the plant grow strong and produce more fruit. You can also supplement with other organic fertilizers to enhance their growth and performance.
Pruning and maintenance
Chinese eggplant does not require heavy pruning, but it is advisable to remove damaged leaves or branches, as well as mature fruits and flowers, to promote ventilation and allow the plant to dedicate more energy to the production of new fruits.
Tutoring is essential for this variety, since the Elongated and heavy fruits can bend or break branchesA stake or support will prevent the fruit from touching the ground and suffering damage or disease.
Common pests and diseases
Like other Solanaceae, Chinese eggplant can be affected by pests of aphids, ants, beetles, fleas and thripsThe most common diseases are mildew, botrytis, and other fungal infections associated with excessive humidity and poor ventilation. To prevent these, check your plants regularly and use organic treatments such as natural phytosanitary products.
- Use physical barriers or row covers to protect young shoots.
- Avoid wetting the leaves and fruits when watering.
- Carry out regular monitoring and, if infested, apply organic treatments such as potassium soap or neem oil.
- Remove damaged fruit by hand and practice proper crop rotation to prevent the appearance of specific pests.
Seed multiplication and conservation
The multiplication of Chinese eggplant is done only from their own seedsTo preserve viable seeds:
- Choose the healthiest fruits and let them ripen fully on the plant.
- Remove the seeds from the pulp, wash them well, and let them dry in a cool, dry, dark place.
- Store them in paper envelopes or airtight jars until next season.
Culinary uses and preparation
Chinese eggplant is ideal for a wide variety of recipes Thanks to its soft texture and thin skin, it's perfect for:
- Quick Asian-style stir-fries, accompanied by ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Oven roasted or grilled, alone or with miso or soy sauces to enhance its umami.
- Eggplant curry, ideal for vegetarian dishes full of flavor.
- In tempura, as an ingredient in omelets, stews or even pickles.
- Its thin skin allows it to be cooked unpeeled, which saves time and retains all its nutrients.
This type of eggplant absorbs less oil during cooking than other varieties, making it ideal for light and healthy preparations.
Key tips for successful Chinese eggplant cultivation
- Keep the soil always moist but not flooded.
- Add mulch to retain moisture and control weeds.
- Cut ripe fruit to encourage new flowering and increased production.
- Regularly monitor your garden for the appearance of pests and act quickly if you detect signs of disease or attack.
- Avoid planting eggplants where you previously had other solanaceous plants (peppers, tomatoes, potatoes) to reduce the risk of soil-borne diseases.
The Chinese eggplant is a very interesting and productive option for both urban and traditional gardens. Its fast growth, high productivity and heat resistance This makes it well-suited to warm climates from late spring to fall. Its care doesn't differ much from that of traditional eggplant, but it's essential to avoid cold temperatures and maintain good drainage and ventilation.
You'll achieve a bountiful harvest, exquisitely flavorful fruits, and many culinary possibilities if you follow these recommendations. Dare to include Chinese eggplant in your next garden and discover all the benefits of this unique vegetable!
