The egg tree (bot. Solanum melongena) is a spectacular and decorative plant. However, the term "tree" is a bit misleading, because the aubergine plant only grows to about 30 to 80 centimeters and is unfortunately not hardy.
The egg tree likes it light and warm
location and soil
The Eierbaum really cannot be described as undemanding. As a nightshade plant, it is one of the vegetable plants and is related to the potato and tomato, but much more sensitive than them. Therefore, the location should be bright to sunny and warm. Cultivation as a houseplant is also possible.
However, even then the egg tree should be outside for at least some time in the summer. A wind-protected place in front of a warm wall or house wall is ideal, but not in the shade. The soil should be evenly moist and well-drained, preferably with some sand.
Plant the egg tree
Ideally, improve soil permeability before planting an egg tree. A drainage layer of gravel, perlite (€37.51) or pumice is very useful for this. You can create this drainage both in a bucket and in a planting hole in the garden. After planting, water the egg tree well. A mulch foil keeps the moisture in the soil longer and keeps it warm.
Water and fertilize
An eggplant plant requires a relatively large amount of water. Therefore, creating a watering rim around the root area of the plant makes sense. This will prevent the irrigation water from draining away unused. Regular watering is very important, especially during the growth phase and flowering period. The soil around the egg tree should always be slightly moist.
The heyday
From around August to October or November, the egg tree bears beautiful blue or red-violet flowers that reach a diameter of three to five centimeters. However, the aubergine plant needs a lot of warmth and light to flower well. In cold weather and/or lack of light, flowering usually does not occur.
The essentials in brief:
Plant Family: Solanaceae (bot. Solanaceae)
- needs a lot of light and heat
- not hardy
- Overwintering possible
- very decorative red or blue-violet flowers
- ripe fruit edible (eggplant)
tips
If you overwinter your egg tree properly, it can bear fruit for several years.