Solanum melongena 'Black Beauty', Black Beauty Eggplant
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Vegetables

Solanum melongena 'Black Beauty'

Black Beauty Eggplant

SolanaceaeAsia

At a Glance

Typevegetable
Habitupright
Foliagedeciduous
Height24-30 inches
Width18-24 inches

Growing Zones

USDA Hardiness Zones

5a - 10b
Zone 5a
Zone 5b
Zone 6a
Zone 6b
Zone 7a
Zone 7b
Zone 8a
Zone 8b
Zone 9a
Zone 9b
Zone 10a
Zone 10b
These zones indicate the coldest temperatures this plant can typically survive.
Frost Tolerancetender

Overview

Solanum melongena 'Black Beauty' is a classic heirloom eggplant cultivar renowned for its large, glossy, deep purple-black fruits and reliable production. This warm-season vegetable forms a sturdy, upright plant with broad, velvety green leaves that have prominent white veining and may display purple-tinged stems and leaf veins. The star-shaped flowers are pale purple with bright yellow centers, appearing in small clusters along the stems. The signature fruits are oval to teardrop-shaped, typically measuring 6-8 inches long and 4-5 inches wide, with a brilliant glossy skin that appears almost black-purple in full sunlight. The flesh is creamy white with a mild, slightly sweet flavor and firm texture that holds up well to cooking. Solanum melongena 'Black Beauty' is distinguished from other eggplant varieties by its consistently large fruit size, deep coloration, and excellent keeping quality.

Native Range

Solanum melongena is native to the Indian subcontinent, particularly the regions that are now India and Myanmar, where wild relatives still grow naturally. The species has been cultivated for over 4,000 years throughout South and Southeast Asia before spreading to the Mediterranean region and eventually worldwide.

Suggested Uses

Solanum melongena 'Black Beauty' works well in vegetable gardens, raised beds, and large containers. Ideal for Mediterranean cooking, grilling, roasting, and traditional dishes like eggplant parmesan, baba ganoush, and ratatouille. The large fruits are perfect for stuffing, slicing for grilling, or cubing for stews and curries. Suitable for home gardens and market growing due to excellent keeping quality and attractive appearance.

How to Identify

Solanum melongena 'Black Beauty' can be identified by its large, velvety, oval-shaped leaves with prominent white veining and occasional purple tinting along the stems and leaf veins. The five-petaled, star-shaped flowers are pale purple with bright yellow stamens clustered in the center. The distinctive fruits are large, glossy, and deep purple-black, with an oval to teardrop shape that tapers slightly toward the blossom end. The green calyx at the stem end is spiny and prominent. Plants typically grow 24-30 inches tall with a sturdy, upright branching habit.

Appearance

Bloom Information

midsummer through early fall

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

pale purple with bright yellow centers

Foliage Description

velvety green with white veining, occasional purple tinting on stems

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

full sun

Soil pH

6.0-7.0

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate to high

Frost Tolerance

tender

Time to Maturity

73-80 days from transplant

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Solanum melongena 'Black Beauty' requires warm soil temperatures above 60°F and full sun exposure for optimal growth. Plant transplants after all danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed thoroughly. Provide consistent moisture throughout the growing season, maintaining soil that is moist but well-draining to prevent root rot. Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and side-dress with compost or balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. In windy areas, stake plants or provide cages for support as fruits become heavy. Monitor for common pests like flea beetles, Colorado potato beetles, and aphids.

Pruning

Solanum melongena 'Black Beauty' benefits from light pruning to improve air circulation and fruit production. Pinch off the first few flowers to encourage stronger plant establishment before fruit set. Remove suckers that develop in leaf axils to direct energy to main stems and fruit production. Prune lower leaves that touch the ground to prevent disease. Late in the season, pinch growing tips to redirect energy to developing fruits. Remove any damaged, diseased, or yellowing leaves promptly to maintain plant health.

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Solanum melongena 'Black Beauty' fruits are safe for human consumption when cooked, though raw eggplant contains solanine and should not be eaten raw in large quantities. The leaves, stems, and flowers contain higher levels of solanine and should not be consumed. Generally safe around pets, but discourage consumption of plant parts other than the cooked fruits.

Planting Guide

Planting Methods & Timing

Planting Method

transplant

Indoor Start

8 weeks before last frost

Direct Sow Timing

not recommended - requires transplant method

Days to Maturity

73–80 days

Plant Spacing

24 inches

Companion Planting

Good Companions

tomatoes
peppers
basil
marigolds
nasturtiums
beans

Avoid Planting With

fennel
brassicas
corn