Thai Lavender Frog Eggplant

Botanical Information for Thai Lavender Frog Eggplant:

• Scientific Name: Solanum melongena
• Common Name: Thai Lavender Frog Eggplant, also known as Cà Pháo Tím
• Origin: Thailand
• Plant Type: Annual in temperate zones; perennial in tropical climates
• Growth Habit: Compact and bushy, reaching approximately 24-36 inches in height
• Fruits: Small, round, 1-2 inch diameter, with a lavender and white or cream coloration
• Harvest: Best harvested when young and pale lavender for tenderness, around 75-100 days after transplanting.

Growing Information:

• Planting Time: Start seeds indoors 6-10 weeks before the last frost for best results.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil; enhance with compost or well-rotted manure.
• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun exposure.
• Spacing: Space plants about 18-24 inches apart for good air circulation and growth.
• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid overhead watering to minimize disease risk.
• Support: Usually does not require staking due to its compact nature, but may benefit from some support in windy conditions.
• Pests and Diseases: Watch for common eggplant pests like flea beetles and aphids. Susceptible to fungal diseases in overly wet conditions, so good air circulation is key.