Organic eggplant 'Open Ophelia x Italian'

Organic 'Open Ophelia' eggplant (Solanum melongena) from the seed company Gaia, an early heirloom variety with small purple fruits

The 'Open Ophelia' eggplant forms moderately compact, well-branched plants with bright green foliage typical of the nightshade family, providing good air circulation around the fruit. The eggplants are small to medium-sized , oval-shaped , and grow in clusters , with smooth, highly glossy, deep purple skin. This regular, clustered fruiting makes it a particularly popular variety for producing mini eggplants and frequent harvests.

An early-maturing , open-pollinated variety, 'Open Ophelia' has been stabilized by Telsing Andrews , resulting in good consistency of shape and color. Its flesh is tender , with low bitterness when harvested at the right stage, and well-suited to a wide variety of culinary preparations. It is ideal for both home gardeners and commercial growers seeking uniform, fast-producing fruit.

Companion plants: Beans, Okra, Thyme, Dill, Mint, Tarragon, Potato, Lettuce, Basil, Pepper, Spinach, Sunflower
Nefarious plants: Fennel, Corn

Spread/Habit: Bushy, moderately compact
Plant height: 60 to 90 cm
Quantity per pack: —
Certification: Certified organic
Special features: Early heirloom variety, fruits in clusters, small oval fruits, deep purple color, open pollination

Leaf color: Medium green
Texture/flavor: Tender, sweet flesh when harvested young
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 usually occurs 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 , into rich, deep, well-drained soil . Space plants 45 to 60 cm apart, with rows 75 to 90 cm apart .

Eggplants prefer a sunny location (level 3) and regular watering (level 3) . Consistent warmth promotes abundant and even fruiting.

Harvesting and preservation

Harvest the eggplants when the skin is glossy and a thumbprint leaves no mark , a sign of tender flesh and optimal quality. Regular harvesting encourages continuous production. Store the fruit at 10-12°C , with approximately 90% humidity , for up to one week .

Usage ideas

• Mini eggplants, sautéed or roasted
• Cooked whole or in quarters
• Mediterranean and Asian dishes
• Frequent harvests for summer cooking
• Elegant presentation on a plate

The 'Open Ophelia' eggplant is prized for its earliness , cluster production , and versatile size , offering a reliable and expressive variety for sunny gardens. A well-balanced heirloom eggplant, ideal for those who appreciate tender, perfectly sized fruit.