Eggplant - Aswad
I got these seeds from Baker Creek. An eggplant from Iraq, Aswad means "black" which describes this eggplant well. It's a dark purple, almost black color. Fruits are shiny and average 5-7 inches by 5-7 inches, though some seem to be doubled (appear like two side-by-side attached fruits) in photos. Aswad eggplants typically weigh over 2 pounds, sometimes over 3 pounds. Plants are productive, often producing in excess of 30-pounds per plant! As a result, plants are very large, 5-6 feet tall, and need to be staked or caged for support. I did find several reports of people growing this variety in large containers successfully. Despite growing to giant proportions, these eggplants are not bitter and don't get seedy. They are well known for being heat and drought tolerant. Vigorous plants, even as seedlings, are often attacked by flea beetles but seem to survive the attacks well. Pick the eggplants small for a meal for one or two people, or let them grow larger for a group meal (or a large family). Aswad eggplants are said to be so tasty they can be prepared without peeling. Grill, fry, or bake these eggplants with just some olive oil, maybe some salt and pepper, and enjoy!
70-85 days to maturity
70-85 days to maturity