The easter egg plant (Solanum ovigerum) is a beautiful addition to any garden. It is easy to grow and does well in both sun and shade. Everything you need to know about growing easter egg plants, from planting to care and maintenance will be found in this article about the famous egg like plant.
If you’re looking for the eggplant that looks like an egg, this is it!
Growing Easter Egg Plant – Guide + Plant Profile
The fruits are spherical and average 3-5 inches in diameter, and one plant may yield 20 to 30 every season.
The easter egg plant is a perennial that grows from 12-18 inches tall. The leaves are dark green and ovate, with a pointed tip. The flowers are small, white, and star-shaped. They bloom in the summer months and produce round, red fruits that resemble eggs.
Easter egg plants prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. They are drought tolerant and can be grown in both containers and garden beds.
How to plant Easter Egg Plant
TIP: 6–8 weeks before planting outside, start seedlings inside.
To plant easter egg plants, you will need a container or garden bed that is at least 12 inches deep. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or organic debris. Dig a hole twice the size of the pot your easter egg plant is in. Place the plant in the hole and fill it with soil, tamping down lightly. Water well to help settle the roots.
It takes 10–14 days for a seed to germinate.
How to Care for an Easter Eggplant
Easter egg plants are easy to care for and require little maintenance. water them deeply once a week, or more often if they are growing in a container. Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer. Deadhead the flowers to encourage new growth.
The fruit is not susceptible to many pests or diseases but can be affected by aphids and whiteflies. If you notice these pests on your plant, treat them with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Harvesting Easter Egg Plant
Maturity occurs between 58 and 72 days after transplantation.
You can begin to harvest easter egg plants when the fruits are about the size of eggs, that’s when they are mature. With a sharp knife, cut them from the plant, being careful not to damage the stem. You can consume these fruits raw or cooked. They are often used in salads or as a garnish.
Before extracting the seeds from unblemished eggplants, they should be overripe.
Health Benefits
It is a great source of vitamin C and A.
The plant is also strong in potassium and contains vitamin B, magnesium, and copper, much like regular eggplant. If you keep the skin on, it includes some folates and fiber.
Helps Digestion
The easter egg plant’s leaves and roots are used as a digestive aid in some cultures. It is thought to help with indigestion, flatulence, and diarrhea.
Aids in Weight Loss
The easter eggplant is low in calories and fat, making it a good choice for those trying to lose weight. It also contains plenty of fiber, which makes you feel fuller for longer.
Reduces Inflammation
Easter eggplants contain compounds that may help reduce inflammation. These compounds include phenolic acids, flavonoids, and anthocyanins.
Bone health is improved
For people who are at high risk of osteoporosis and bone deterioration, eggplants can be quite useful. The phenolic chemicals in the vegetable can help strengthen bones and promote mineral density.
Extra – Easter Egg Plant recipes
Easter Egg Plant Salad
Ingredients:
• One pound of easter eggplant, diced
• One red onion, diced
• One green bell pepper, diced
• One cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• One tablespoon of olive oil
• One tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
• One teaspoon of honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large bowl, mix together the easter eggplant, red onion, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt and pepper. Toss to combine. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Easter Egg Plant and Bacon Bites
Ingredients:
• One pound of easter eggplant, diced
• Eight strips of bacon, diced
• One cup of bread crumbs
• One tablespoon of parsley, chopped
• One teaspoon of garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. In a large bowl, mix together the diced eggplant, bacon, bread crumbs, parsley, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Toss to combine.
Grease a baking sheet with cooking spray. Place the eggplant bites on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
