Black Beauty
Solanaceae
Eggplant
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Black Beauty is the classic American eggplant from 1902, producing 1-3 lb dark purple fruits. For more reliable PNW production, try the slender Japanese types like Ichiban or Millionaire.
Eggplant is the most heat-demanding crop in this library. In cool PNW summers, grow the smallest-fruited varieties (Asian/Italian types) which mature faster. Black Beauty produces well in hot summers but may disappoint in cool years. Plant against a south-facing wall for reflected heat. Bainbridge gardeners have success with eggplant about 3 out of 4 summers.
Start indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost. Transplant only when soil is truly warm (65°F+) and nights are reliably above 55°F — late May to early June on Bainbridge. Space 18-24" apart (1 per sq ft). Eggplants are heavy feeders: work compost into planting holes and side-dress with balanced organic fertilizer monthly. Use floating row cover for first 2-3 weeks to trap heat. Stake each plant. Harvest when skin is glossy and fruits yield slightly to thumb pressure — dull skin means overripe and bitter.