Turkish Orange Eggplant (Scarlet Solanum Aethiopicum) Fruit Vegetable Seeds

The Turkish Orange Eggplant (Solanum aethiopicum) is an eye-catching heirloom variety that produces small, round orange fruits with glossy skin and firm flesh. Originally from Africa and popular in the Mediterranean region, this eggplant offers a mildly sweet, rich flavor ideal for roasting, grilling, or stews.

With its compact growth habit and striking fruit color, this variety serves as both an ornamental and culinary favorite. It thrives in warm climates, making it perfect for gardeners seeking a unique and productive addition to their vegetable patch.

Features

• Distinctive Appearance: Produces bright orange, round fruits resembling miniature pumpkins.
• Flavorful & Versatile: Sweet, mild flavor perfect for Mediterranean and Asian dishes.
• Compact Growth: Ideal for containers, patios, or small garden spaces.
• High Yielding: Continuous fruiting throughout summer.
• Non-GMO & Heirloom: Naturally grown for purity and strong germination.

Specifications

• Common Name: Turkish Orange Eggplant
• Scientific Name: Solanum aethiopicum
• Plant Type: Annual fruiting vegetable
• USDA Zones: 4 – 11
• Maturity: 70 – 85 days
• Fruit Size: 2–3 inches in diameter
• Fruit Color: Bright orange with red undertones
• Soil Type: Rich, well-draining loam with high organic matter
• Soil pH: 5.8 – 6.8
• Sunlight: Full sun (6–8 hours daily)
• Water Needs: Moderate; keep soil evenly moist
• GMO Status: 100% Non-GMO, untreated
• Season: Spring to early summer planting

Planting Guide

• Sowing Time: Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost.
• Seed Depth: ¼ inch (6 mm).
• Germination: 7–14 days at 75–85 °F (24–29 °C).
• Transplanting: Move seedlings outdoors when nighttime temperatures stay above 55 °F (13 °C).
• Spacing: 18–24 inches between plants.
• Watering: Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture.
• Harvesting: Pick fruits when they turn deep orange for the best flavor.

Care Tips

• Fertilize every 3–4 weeks with a balanced vegetable fertilizer.
• Use mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
• Stake or cage plants if heavy with fruit.
• Avoid overripe fruits; early harvest encourages new blooms.