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Black Beauty is a legendary heirloom variety first introduced by W. Atlee Burpee in 1902.
It quickly became the standard by which large eggplants were measured — prized by home gardeners for its reliable harvests, beautiful deep-purple fruit, and rich, tender flesh. The fruit are broad, glossy, deep violet-black, typically 4–6 inches long and weighing up to 2 lb when grown in optimal conditions. It matures in about 80–90 days (from transplant), making it one of the faster heirlooms of its size.
Why It’s Special:
Because it’s an heirloom, seed stock has been maintained consistently over many decades—flavour, shine, texture remain true to the original. Plants are fairly sturdy, producing fruit reliably even in less-than-perfect weather, especially when given good soil, full sun, and protection from cold.
Tasting Notes & Uses:Flesh is meaty and mildly sweet, with just enough richness to stand up to grilling, roasting, stuffing, or classic eggplant parmigiana. Peel remains smooth and glossy when fruit is harvested just before peak ripeness.
Black Beauty is a legendary heirloom variety first introduced by W. Atlee Burpee in 1902.
It quickly became the standard by which large eggplants were measured — prized by home gardeners for its reliable harvests, beautiful deep-purple fruit, and rich, tender flesh. The fruit are broad, glossy, deep violet-black, typically 4–6 inches long and weighing up to 2 lb when grown in optimal conditions. It matures in about 80–90 days (from transplant), making it one of the faster heirlooms of its size.
Why It’s Special:
Because it’s an heirloom, seed stock has been maintained consistently over many decades—flavour, shine, texture remain true to the original. Plants are fairly sturdy, producing fruit reliably even in less-than-perfect weather, especially when given good soil, full sun, and protection from cold.
Tasting Notes & Uses:Flesh is meaty and mildly sweet, with just enough richness to stand up to grilling, roasting, stuffing, or classic eggplant parmigiana. Peel remains smooth and glossy when fruit is harvested just before peak ripeness.