This Taiwanese heirloom delivers slender purple fruits up to 14 inches long in just 70 days, bringing exceptional sweetness and tender texture that sets it apart from typical eggplants. Originating from Ping Tung, Taiwan, this Chinese-type variety thrives in hot climates between 75-95°F and produces remarkably high yields despite its compact 24-32 inch stature. The elongated fruits make kitchen prep a breeze while delivering what many consider the finest flavor among Asian eggplant varieties.
Full Sun
Moderate
10-11
32in H x 30in W
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High
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Ping Tung stands out for its extraordinary sweetness and tender flesh that needs minimal preparation to shine. The slender 10-14 inch fruits are perfectly sized for easy handling and consistent cooking, while the plant itself rewards gardeners with early fruit set and continuous production well into fall. This heat-loving variety excels where others struggle, making it invaluable for hot climate gardeners seeking reliable yields and exceptional flavor.
This variety excels in traditional Taiwanese preparations, particularly when cooked and chilled as a refreshing side dish with soy sauce, garlic, and peppers. The slender shape makes it ideal for quick stir-fries, grilling, and Asian braised dishes where even cooking is essential. Young 4-inch fruits offer delicate flavors perfect for tempura or light sautéing, while full-sized fruits handle robust preparations beautifully.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost, sowing 1/4 inch deep in quality seed-starting mix. Maintain soil temperature between 75-85°F using a heat mat if necessary, as seeds will sprout in 10-15 days under optimal conditions.
Transplant seedlings outdoors 2-3 weeks after last frost once soil temperature reaches at least 65°F. Harden off seedlings gradually before transplanting, spacing them 18-24 inches apart. Cover immediately with row cover to protect from flea beetles.
Harvest fruits when they reach 6-12 inches long and display smooth, glossy skin with firm flesh. Young fruits at 4 inches offer the most delicate flavor, while full-sized 10-12 inch fruits provide maximum yield. Avoid leaving fruits on the plant too long as they become seedy and bitter when overripe. Continuous harvesting encourages ongoing production throughout the growing season.
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“This treasured variety hails from Ping Tung, Taiwan, where it serves as the standard eggplant in local markets and street food culture. The variety made its way to American gardens through seed preservation efforts, carrying with it generations of Taiwanese culinary tradition. Its journey from Taiwan's bustling markets to diverse American gardens represents the beautiful migration of heirloom varieties that connect us to distant food cultures and agricultural wisdom.”