Eggplant Seeds - Purple Shine - Hybrid

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Other Common Names: Aubergine, ai qwa, badanjan, baingan, baingun, bangai, bangain, bhanta, brinjal, chan che zu, ca tim, chieh tse, Japanese round eggplant, mackhera, makhua terung, ma khuea yaao, hon pee choi, nasubi, ngai kwa, qie zi, talong, terong, terung, wam batu.

How to Grow Purple Shine Eggplant

Germinate the seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before transplanting them into the growing bed. The soil should be at or above 80°F during germination. Planting out early in the spring can negatively affect plant vigor. Transplant outside about 14 days after the danger of frost has passed. Harden off the sprouts before transplanting to avoid shock. Work fertilizer or compost into the soil and ensure the ground temperature is at least 75°F before planting.

Stake the plants as they grow to support the developing fruit. Fertilize at least twice during the growing season (up to twice per month) with a small handful of low-intensity fertilizer or fully matured compost. Avoid fertilizers with high nitrogen levels. Cover the ground with black plastic if growing in a cooler area to retain soil heat; this also inhibits weeds. Water the soil regularly to prevent dryness.

Harvesting Purple Shine Eggplant

Harvest when plump, 9-11 inches in length and glossy. Check if an eggplant is ready to eat by gently depressing the skin; if the flesh indents and rebounds, it is ready to be picked. If the skin has lost its shine, it may be over-ripe. Cut the fruit off the plant just above the calyx.

Culinary Tips

A popular Chinese dish stir-fries eggplant with bean sprouts, peppers, and tomatoes. Use Purple Shines for grilling, stuffing, baking, and pickling; it is delicious when coated, baked, or fried with miso.

Tips From Our Gardeners

“In my opinion, Purple Shine is the ideal variety for cutting into small slices or cubes for cooking. It retains its integrity very well and offers a mild taste which pairs well with many flavors.”

-Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Seeds Per Package

• 500 mg packet - Approximately 112 Seeds
• 1 oz - Approximately 6,250 Seeds
• 4 oz - Approximately 25,000 Seeds
• 1 lb - Approximately 100,000 Seeds