Solanum Black Beauty (USDA Organic) Eggplant, Solanum melongena 'Black Beauty Eggplant', is characterized by its large glossy black eggs on a large vigorous plant that requires staking. The fine flavored fruit average 6 ½ long by 5" in diameter and weighs approximately 3 lbs. An average yield of Eggplant 'Black Beauty' is about 15 fruits per plant. This is excellent for stuffing as well as providing perfect-size slices for parmagians & lasagnas. Black Beauty Eggplants are ready for harvest quite early compared to other varieties. Eggplants want much the same soil conditions as tomatoes, but they are also a little more sensitive, being generally susceptible to wilts, and fond of near-tropical weather. Growing in pots can help alleviate or lessen some of these concerns. Warming the soil with plastic ground covers, and situating the plantings near south-facing walls can also help keep things warm enough. Tomato fertilizer and plenty of water will help the plants develop nice fruits. " (Click Merchant link below for full description)