- Species and varieties: The Machiaw Purple Eggplant is a variety of Solanum melongena. It is known for its long, slender, and glossy purple fruits. This variety is popular in Asian cuisine and is often used in stir-fries, grills, and roasts.
- Hybrid or heirloom: The Machiaw Purple Eggplant is a hybrid variety. Hybrids are created by crossing two different varieties of a plant to create a new variety with desirable traits from both parents. In the case of the Machiaw Purple, it is bred for its unique shape, color, and taste.
- Pruning and training: Pruning is not typically necessary for eggplants. However, staking or caging can help support the plant as it grows and produces fruit. This can prevent the branches from breaking under the weight of the fruit.
- Fertilization needs: Eggplants are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization. A balanced vegetable fertilizer can be applied every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. It's also beneficial to add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil at planting time.
- Hardiness zones: Eggplants, including the Machiaw Purple variety, are warm-season vegetables. They are best suited to USDA hardiness zones 4-10. They need a long growing season and warm temperatures to produce fruit.
- Climate requirements: Eggplants require full sun and well-drained soil. They prefer a soil pH between 6.3 and 6.8. The Machiaw Purple Eggplant, like other eggplants, requires a consistent supply of moisture, especially during dry periods.