Eggplant Gilo Tingua (Solanum aethiopicum)

Gilo Tingua Eggplant (Solanum aethiopicum): this ornamental variety comes from Brazil, the fruits are edible but it is best to eat them when still immature and of a deep green colour.
The plant, like most members of this species, has a dark, purplish stem and veins, which make it particularly beautiful, thanks also to the contrast with the color of the leaves. The numerous fruits, measuring about 10-12 cm, are initially green and then turn a bright red/orange when ripe, truly beautiful to look at. They remain on the plant for a long time, but we recommend harvesting them to increase yields. Very hardy, it is perfect for pots, tolerating poor watering and the stresses that container conditions bring. Its organoleptic characteristics are not noteworthy; grow it for its botanical peculiarity or its decorative appearance.

 

*= Very low, does not require irrigation

**= Low, also suitable for hot and arid areas, water only in case of prolonged drought

***= Reduced, one of the least demanding varieties of the species, suitable for areas with sporadic rainfall, irrigate only in case of prolonged drought

****= Tolerant to water stress, requires moderate irrigation, suitable for low-water consumption gardens.

Unfortunately, until the guide is published, this is just a rough guideline to avoid confusion. Dryland farming requires cultivation techniques suited to the soil and soil conditions. All varieties have been acclimated in Italy.