Organic long eggplant 'Thai Round'
Organic 'Thai Round' eggplant (Solanum melongena) from the seed company Gaia, a round and compact heritage variety prized in Thai cuisine
The 'Thai Round' eggplant forms compact, well-branched plants , ideal for small spaces and container gardening . The fruits are small and perfectly round , with smooth skin that can vary from bright green to pale purple , depending on growing conditions. Their firm, crisp flesh holds its shape well when cooked and readily absorbs seasonings.
Widely used in Southeast Asian cuisine , this eggplant is distinguished by its sweet flavor with a slight bitterness , a characteristic and sought-after quality in curries , stir-fries , and certain salads . Harvested young, it is particularly crisp, while at maturity it becomes more tender. Rich in antioxidants , it combines culinary appeal and nutritional value, all while remaining easy to grow.
Companion plants: Beans, Okra, Thyme, Dill, Mint, Tarragon, Potato, Lettuce, Basil, Pepper, Spinach, Sunflower
Nefarious plants: Fennel, Corn
Spread/Habit: Compact, bushy
Plant height: 45 to 60 cm
Quantity per packet: 20 seeds
Certification: Environmentally friendly product
Special features: Heirloom Asian variety, round fruit, ideal for containers, firm texture, absorbs flavors well
Leaf color: Medium green
Texture/flavor: Firm, crisp flesh, slightly bitter
Cold tolerance: Sensitive to cold
Farming method
Sow the seeds indoors 8 to 12 weeks before the last frost , at a depth of 0.6 cm , in a warm, well-drained potting mix. Germination takes place in 7 to 14 days , at an optimal temperature of 23 to 30°C . Transplant outdoors when daytime temperatures reach 18°C and nighttime temperatures remain above 10°C . Space plants 45 to 60 cm apart, with rows 75 to 90 cm apart , in rich, deep, well-drained soil .
Eggplants prefer full sun (level 3) and regular watering (level 3) . Consistent warmth promotes even production and good fruit quality.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest the fruit when the skin is glossy and a thumbprint leaves no mark , a sign of firm flesh and optimal quality. Frequent harvesting encourages continuous production. Store at 10-12°C , with approximately 90% humidity , for up to one week .
Usage ideas
• Traditional Thai curries
• Asian vegetable stir-fry
• Crisp salads when young
• Quick cooking to absorb sauces
• Growing in pots on a sunny balcony
The 'Thai Round' eggplant is distinguished by its compact size , culinary versatility , and unique texture , offering an ideal heirloom variety for fragrant kitchens and small gardens. An expressive, simple eggplant deeply rooted in Asian tradition.
