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Jilo Morro Redondo Brazilian Eggplant

Quick Facts:

  • Popular variety in Brazilian cuisine
  • Known locally as Jilo
  • Traditionally sautéed with onions
  • Large plants produce huge yields
  • 70-75 days to maturity

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Quantity: Packet (25 Seeds)

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We ship to all areas of North America including the United States, its territories and outlying islands, and Canada. International orders may incur an additional charge to cover the handling of customs paperwork. Returns are accepted within 30 days of receipt. Full warranty information can be found here.

Jilo Morro Redondo Brazilian Eggplant

More about Jilo Morro Redondo

Solanum aethiopicum

One of the two predominant types of jilo (eggplant) found in Brazilian cuisine.  Jilo Morro Redondo, translated "round hill", is typically harvested while still green and may be fried or used in main dishes and soups.  Sautéed jilo and onions are also a popular snack in parts of Brazil.  Large plants can reach up to 5 feet tall, producing tremendous amounts of fruit over a single season.  Left on the plant, the dark green fruit will turn orange and finally red once fully ripened. Seed for this variety was generously provided by the USDA National Genetic Resources Program (NGRP).  70-75 days to maturity. Each packet contains a minimum of 25 seeds.

Solanum aethiopicum

One of the two predominant types of jilo (eggplant) found in Brazilian cuisine.  Jilo Morro Redondo, translated "round hill", is typically harvested while still green and may be fried or used in main dishes and soups.  Sautéed jilo and onions are also a popular snack in parts of Brazil.  Large plants can reach up to 5 feet tall, producing tremendous amounts of fruit over a single season.  Left on the plant, the dark green fruit will turn orange and final... read more

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Solanum aethiopicum

One of the two predominant types of jilo (eggplant) found in Brazilian cuisine.  Jilo Morro Redondo, translated "round hill", is typically harvested while still green and may be fried or used in main dishes and soups.  Sautéed jilo and onions are also a popular snack in parts of Brazil.  Large plants can reach up to 5 feet tall, producing tremendous amounts of fruit over a single season.  Left on the plant, the dark green fruit will turn orange and finally red once fully ripened. Seed for this variety was generously provided by the USDA National Genetic Resources Program (NGRP).  70-75 days to maturity. Each packet contains a minimum of 25 seeds.

Little Girl planting seeds
Little girl planting seeds

How to Grow Eggplant

Eggplants require well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH level of 5.5-6.5. They need full sun exposure for at least 6 hours per day, although some shade during the hottest part of the day can be beneficial.

Sow seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost.  Plant seeds 1/4" deep in pre-moistened sterile seed starting media. Germination will be improved by using a growers heat mat.  Transplant outdoors once soil temps have reached 60 degrees.  Space transplants 18-24” apart in rows 36” apart.  Harvest fruit while skin is still glossy and tender.

Transplant hardened-off seedlings outdoors once the soil temperature reaches at least 60°F. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and add a handful of fertilizer to the bottom. Carefully remove the eggplant seedling from its container, being careful not to disturb the roots. Place the seedling in the hole and backfill with soil, firming it gently around the stem. Water thoroughly and keep the soil evenly moist until the plant becomes established.

Insect Pests

Eggplants can be affected by several insect pests, including aphids, flea beetles, spider mites, and cutworms. Most of these pests can be controlled using organic insecticides, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap. Practicing consistent crop rotation and good garden hygiene, such as removing crop debris and weeds, can also aid in controlling populations.

Diseases & Other Problems

Although not common, eggplants are susceptible to several diseases, including verticillium wilt, fusarium wilt, bacterial wilt, and phytophthora blight, which are caused by soil-borne fungi and bacteria. Other problems include blossom-end rot, which is caused by calcium deficiency and uneven watering, and sunscald, which occurs when the fruit is exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period. To prevent these problems, plant disease-resistant varieties, rotate crops, maintain proper soil pH and moisture levels, and provide shade for the fruit. Additionally, ensure consistent watering and soil fertility to prevent nutrient deficiencies that can lead to blossom-end rot.

Eggplants can be harvested when the fruit is fully colored and the skin is glossy. Using a sharp knife or pruning shears, cut the stem 1-2 inches above the fruit. Avoid pulling or twisting the fruit, which can damage the plant. After harvesting, gently rinse the fruit in cool water and dry it thoroughly. Eggplants can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To store for longer periods, slice the eggplant and blanch it in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then drain and cool before freezing.

CONSIDERATIONS:

Eggplants are self-pollinating plants that do not generally need isolation; however isolation may be necessary depending on the number of varieties being grown and the number of pollinators present. Caging plants with netting can prevent cross-pollination from occurring.

HARVESTING SEED:

Allow fruit to fully ripen before harvesting. Once the skins are dull and/or have begun to change to a yellowish color (or bright red for Brazilian or African types), cut the fruit from the plant. An after-harvest ripening period of 7-10 days can improve germination. Scoop out the seeds and pulp and crush in a food processor fitted with a plastic blade. Add water to allow the pulp and non-viable seeds to float to the top. Pour off. Repeat until the water runs clean. Pour the remaining seeds onto a coffee filter, strain off any excess water and allow to dry in a warm, well-ventilated area.

SEED LONGETIVITY:

Eggplant seeds will maintain 50% germination for up to 7 years when stored under ideal conditions.

Child planting a seedling

Customer Reviews

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Anthony Cavaliere
Got the seeds,planted them, nothing

I got the seeds,I planted them, been over 2weeks, nothing has happen.

Thank you for your review, Anthony. Jilo Redondo can be a bit tricky to germinate. They like a bit of bottom heat, not too wet of soil, and they can be a little slow to start, even under the best conditions. We'll be in touch about a refund or replacement, but in the meantime, I'd recommend holding onto your starts for just a bit longer. They may well sprout given a little more time.

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