Egg Fruit Black Beauty Seeds

Grow classic, large purple aubergines for grilling, roasting, frying and stews. Egg Fruit Black Beauty is a full-size Solanum melongena selection that thrives in a sunny, warm-season bed.

Grow Guide: Ready to grow Black Beauty from seed? Follow our step-by-step Egg Fruit Grow Guide for warm germination, transplanting, South African regional timing and harvest advice.

Quick Grow Facts

• Scientific name: Solanum melongena
• Sowing window: Start under protection before your warm, frost-free planting season; transplant only once the soil and nights are warm.
• Depth and germination: Cover lightly, about 5–6 mm deep, in clean, fine, evenly moist, freely draining seedling mix. Expect emergence in roughly one to two weeks under suitable warmth; cold mix can delay it.
• Warmth and light: Aim for about 24–29 °C in the seedling mix and provide strong overhead light after emergence.
• Spacing: Allow around 60–75 cm between plants and enough row or path width for airflow and picking.
• Growth and support: Full-size bed plant; cage or stake before heavy fruit bends branches.
• Harvest: Cut large purple fruit while the skin is glossy and the flesh is firm with a slight give, before seeds harden. Warmth and care affect timing.

Why Grow This Variety

Black Beauty gives the traditional generous purple fruit many cooks want from a home-grown aubergine.

Growing Notes

Start seed in a protected tray, harden sturdy seedlings gradually for 7–10 days and transplant after frost danger has passed. Grow in full sun in fertile, freely drained soil. Water consistently through flowering and fruit set, feed moderately and avoid excessive nitrogen. Cook the harvested fruit; do not eat the leaves or stems.

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