Aubergine (eggplant)
Solanum melongena
Botanical family: Solanaceae
Solanum melongena, a Solanaceae from southern Asia, grown for its fruit, which is eaten cooked and never raw. Frost-tender, it goes out into the garden only once all risk of frost has passed. Sources: Tela Botanica, “Solanum melongena L.” (Baseflor); Plants For A Future, “Solanum melongena”.
Full sun
Rich, warm
Regular
Frost-tender: a perennial in warm climates, grown as an annual in ours; it needs plenty of warmth
Frost-tender in your zone
One plant is enough, but insects (or a brush) must carry the pollen to the pistil
One plant is enough for a crop
Role in permaculture
A tropical nightshade that needs a lot of warmth (>20 °C at night), often grown in a cold greenhouse in northern France. Vibration-pollinated (buzz) by bumblebees, hence the value of attracting them. High demand for water and nutrients. Against Meloidogyne nematodes, the French marigold (Tagetes patula) only works as a dedicated, dense crop over a whole season, not as a mere border (see its fact sheet).
Good companions
Fix nitrogen from the air (legumes)
Attract pollinators and beneficial insects
Suppress some soil nematodes (dense planting, before the crop)
Aromatic: scent said to confuse pests
Traditional companion planting (benefit not demonstrated)
Poor companions
Same family: shared diseases and pests
Allelopathy, reputed or observed: may slow some neighbours
Insects attracted or useful
Known pests & diseases
Pests and diseases that commonly affect this plant, tap to learn how to recognise and manage them.
Seasons & availability
The summer vegetable par excellence, from July to October.
Available: July, August, September, October.
Guidance for the oceanic / temperate climate; it may vary with your region, altitude, exposure and growing method.
Sources
- RHS, « How to Grow Aubergines » (rhs.org.uk/vegetables/aubergines/grow-your-own)
- La Ferme de Sainte Marthe, « Réussir la culture des aubergines » (fermedesaintemarthe.com/en/blogs/comment-reussir-la-culture-de/reussir-la-culture-des-aubergines)
- Garden Organic, « Aubergine » (gardenorganic.org.uk/expert-advice/how-to-grow/growing-guides/vegetables-herbs-guides/how-to-grow-aubergine)
Nutritional & medicinal properties
For educational purposes. Not a substitute for medical advice. Effects depend on the form, the dose and personal context.
Precautions & contraindications
Nutritional interest is fine but not exceptional compared to other colourful vegetables.
Family behaviour: Solanaceae
In general, Solanaceae are very hungry for nitrogen and prone to blight (Phytophthora infestans). They like heat, sun and a rich soil.
Understanding families means learning one rule per family rather than every pairing one by one. Learn more →
Species & varieties
The best-known species and varieties in France.