Solanaceae Solanum melongena L.
Source: Magness et al. 1971
The plant, as grown commercially, is an annual, much branched, 2 to 3 feet tall, with large ovate or oblong leaves, densely pubescent on the lower surface. Fruits are large, 3 to as much as 10 inches long, and smooth skinned, with calyx retained at base when marketed. They are near globular to pyriform, or markedly elongated in shape. Plants are usually started in beds and moved to the field at 8 to 10 weeks of age. Cultural practices are similar to those for tomatoes.
Production in U.S.: 28,000 tons.
Use: Mainly culinary, as cooked vegetable.
Part of plant consumed: Whole fruit after calyx removed.