Red Goose GardensEggplant
Solanum melongena is a member of the Solanaceae or nightshade family, and so, closely related to both tomatos and potatoes. The egplant itself is actually a berry, a type of fruit, and not a vegetable. The common American name comes from much admired 19th century cultivars which were smaller and off-white in color. These traits are coming back into fashion.
We are producing four cultivars this year. Rosa Bianca is a medium-sized Italian heirloom, with streaked white and violet skin and noticeable ribs, and a mild, creamy taste. Beatrice, an F1 hybrid pictured above, is a little smaller, with a smooth round bright violet skin. Nadia is a traditional large dark Italian example. Clara, below, is also an F1 medium to large Italian-style hybrid, with a pale white skin.
