Are you looking for something a bit different to grow in your garden this year? Why not try some unusual aubergines? There are nine unique varieties of this tasty vegetable that will spice up your garden with their interesting shapes and colors.
From the bright white ‘Casper’ to the purple-black ‘Rosa Bianca’, these unusual aubergines are sure to provide you with a delicious crop. Read on to discover all nine varieties and find out which one is right for you!
The benefits of growing unusual aubergines
The unique aspect of gardening is the ability to grow unusual items, and aubergines are no exception. With nine unusual varieties available, there is something for every aspiring gardener.
From baked, pickled, and grilled to added to bulk up a casserole, aubergines are a versatile and unique addition to any garden. One of the most unique is the ‘pea aubergine’ (Solanum ferox or ‘Bitter Apple’). Often used to decorate dishes with its vibrant violet-blue skin, it originates from India and is generally not eaten.
Its ornamental flowers form a bell-like shape, making it a welcome addition to an ornamental beds. The ‘Asian White’ variety (Solanum melongena) has white-green skin and is high in vitamin C and K.
This east-Asian variety is particularly resistant to diseases due to its thick skin and has a sweet, nutty flavour. It is best suited for warm climates and can be cooked with a variety of herbs and spices. The ‘Listada di Gandia’ (Solanum melongena var.
esculentum) originates from Spain and closely resembles a potato in shape. With its beautiful mottled pink-purple skin and white flesh, it is the most colourful of the nine varieties. It is best served roasted with a little olive oil and garlic for a delicious side dish.
Last, but by no means least, is the ‘Rosa Bianca’ (Solanum melongena). It has a creamy, white flesh and is probably the most sought after aubergine of the nine.
It is also the sweetest tasting and can be grilled, roasted, and fried as part of a dish. Whatever your preferences, there is a variety of aubergine that is sure to tantalise your taste buds. Growing nine unusual aubergines is sure to add colour and variety to any garden.
Tips for growing unusual aubergines
For the avid gardener who is looking to grow something special and unique, unusual aubergines can be a great choice. Nine unusual aubergines that you can grow in a UK garden are ‘Karimbu’, ‘Bambino’, ‘Violetta di Firenze’, ‘Tricolor’, ‘Black Beauty’, ‘Fairy Tale’, ‘Violette’, ‘Rosa Bianca’ and ‘Ping Tung’. These vegetables are quite rare and are sure to make your garden stand out from the crowd.
Growing unusual aubergines can provide some challenge for even the most seasoned of gardeners. One of the main challenges is ensuring that you have the correct soil structure, temperature, and humidity levels.
Additionally, growing some varieties, such as ‘Karimbu’ and ‘Rosa Bianca’ can only be done in frost-free climates. Therefore, you’re probably best off growing these varieties in a greenhouse. When it comes to watering, it’s best to water deeply and frequently.
As a guide, water your vegetables when the top 2 inches of soil are dry to the touch. Furthermore, you should also check the pH level of your soil to ensure the optimum environment for your aubergines.
Lastly, one of the most important things to keep in mind when growing your unusual aubergines is to prune and stake your aubergine plants regularly. Staking helps to support the structure of the aubergine plants as they grow. In addition, pruning helps to keep the plants free of damage from adverse weather and helps to promote healthy, nutrient-rich growth.
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll be well on your way to growing some of the more unusual aubergines that a UK garden can support.
The different types of unusual aubergines
Growing your own food is becoming increasingly popular as homesteaders look for ways to get healthy, nutritious and cost-effective produce without compromising on quality. Nine unusual aubergines to grow is an interesting gardening option because they come in all sorts of exciting varieties, shapes and sizes.
Whether you’re a novice gardener or an experienced cultivator, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from that will help make your cropping a success, and even more so if you choose some of the more unusual aubergines. From the African aubergine to the Kalahari salt and vine, there are numerous varieties to explore. African aubergines are a more compact species with a unique purple and black striped skin.
They can reach up to three feet in length and are packed with flavour. The Zambian vegetable, known as the Kalahari salt and vine, produces long, light-skinned fruits with a unique flavour.
Another variety, the rozaka aubergine, has an olive-green skin and tomato-like fruits that are softer and sweeter than the typical aubergine. Lastly, the Thai green stripe aubergine is known for its ultra-long shape and bright, mottled green and white skin. All these varieties are disease resistant and adaptable to most climates, making them an excellent choice for home-grown aubergines.
With extra patience, creativity and the right conditions, you’ll be able to grow these nine unusual aubergines without any trouble. From rozaka to Kalahari salt and vine and Thai green stripe, the possibilities are endless when it comes to growing your own food!
How to harvest and store unusual aubergines
Growing and harvesting unusual aubergines is a great way to add a unique flavor to your cooking repertoire. As a UK gardening expert, I’d like to share nine unusual types of aubergines that you can grow to spruce up your diet.
One of the most interesting varieties is the Japanese aubergine. This thin-skinned eggplant with a deep purple color somewhat resembles the more familiar Sicilian. The Japanese can be baked, roasted, grilled or sautéed and is delicious in stir-fries.
It’s worth noting that the Japanese takes much longer to mature than many other varieties, so patience is key if you’re thinking of growing this at home. Next up is the White Egg aubergine, also known as the Ping Tung Long.
This vegetable has an elongated, pear-shaped body with a pure white skin. Its flavour is rich and creamy; perfect for recipes like mole and ratatouille. This type does not require any pruning, making it a very easy-to-grow variety.
Then there’s the Black Egg aubergine, sometimes referred to as the Black Beauty. In contrast to the White Egg, its exterior is a beautiful deep black and its flavor is quite a bit sweeter.
Not surprisingly, it’s a perfect addition to any Chinese-style dish. If you prefer something a little bit bigger and meatier, you can also try out the Graffiti aubergine. A beautiful deep violet in color, its towering size makes it perfect for grilling and roasting.
The Graffiti is also great for stuffing, making it a very versatile variety. The Lebanese, or Claret, aubergine is another interesting option. This small, dark purple vegetable is excellent either cooked or raw. As its name suggests, it pairs especially well with dishes of Middle Eastern origin. The Green Christmas aubergine, also known as the Thai Green Finger eggplant, is a great choice if you prefer a more subtle flavor. The skin of this one is a deep, vivid green, while the flesh is ivory white. It’s excellent chopped into stews or stir-fries. The ever-popular Cuban Fingerling is yet another important variety to consider. This slender, wine-colored vegetable has thinner walls than the average aubergine and an exquisite flavor. The perfect addition to your Mediterranean dishes. And for the true gourmand, the Japanese White Constellation might be of interest. Its stark white skin is a refreshing visual twist, while its delicate, succulent flesh is sure to delight your taste buds. Finally, the Last but most definitely not least is the Listada de Gandia. This rare, creamy white-and-purple striped variety has a unique flavor that’s sweet yet slightly tart. A delicious choice for any vegetable lover. No matter what variety you choose, harvesting and storing your unique aubergines is easy. Simply wait until they are busting out with color, then cut them off the vine. The best way to store them is to refrigerate them in a plastic bag. With just a bit of patience and some love, you can easily enjoy the fruits of your labour year-round.
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Bottom Line
This article explores nine unusual aubergine varieties that can be grown in the garden. From the classic Black Beauty to the exotic Striped Toga, each variety offers something different in terms of colour, shape, and taste. With a little care and attention, these unusual aubergines can be grown to their full potential and enjoyed in all their unique glory.
FAQ
What are the benefits of growing unusual aubergines?
The benefits of growing unusual aubergines include the ability to grow unique varieties that may have different flavors, colors, and textures than traditional varieties. Additionally, they may be more resistant to pests and diseases, and may produce higher yields than traditional varieties. Finally, they may be more interesting and attractive to customers, leading to increased sales.
What are some of the most unusual aubergine varieties?
Some of the most unusual aubergine varieties include Rosa Bianca, Listada de Gandia, White Eggplant, and Long Purple.
How do you care for unusual aubergines?
To care for unusual aubergines, make sure to keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. When handling them, be gentle and avoid bruising the skin. When cooking, make sure to cook them thoroughly to avoid any food poisoning.
What are the best climates for growing unusual aubergines?
The best climates for growing unusual aubergines are warm and humid climates with plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil.
What are the most common pests and diseases that affect unusual aubergines?
The most common pests and diseases that affect unusual aubergines include aphids, flea beetles, whiteflies, and powdery mildew.
What are the best soil conditions for growing unusual aubergines?
The best soil conditions for growing unusual aubergines are well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy, and the plants should be given plenty of sunlight.
