Illikomban Eggplant is a rare Indian heirloom that grows into something truly extraordinary: elongated fruits that stretch 2 feet or longer, emerald green and slender as a snake. Found exclusively in the mangrove-rich region of Onattukara in South Kerala, this cultivar carries a name that speaks to its distinctive shape, 'Illikomban' translating to 'long brinjal similar to elephant tusk.' It thrives in warm climates (zones 9-12) and reaches a mature height of just 4-6 inches, yet produces these impossibly long fruits in full sun. Growing this heirloom connects you directly to an agricultural tradition rooted in one of India's most storied regions.
Full Sun
Moderate
9-12
6in H x ?in W
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Moderate
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The sheer drama of this eggplant sets it apart: fruits stretching over 2 feet in length with an otherworldly slender profile and deep emerald green color that looks almost luminous in the garden. The name itself, Illikomban, reveals how deeply this variety is embedded in South Kerala's cultural identity, where it has grown for generations in the agricultural abundance of the Onattukara region's mangrove backwaters. Despite its impressive fruit length, the plants remain compact at just 4-6 inches tall, creating an elegant contrast between miniature plant and outsized harvest.
As an edible eggplant, Illikomban is used in South Indian cooking, where its elongated form and slender profile make it suited to traditional preparations that take advantage of its unique shape. The long, tender fruits can be sliced for curries, grilled whole, or prepared in dishes where the eggplant's delicate structure is an asset rather than a challenge.
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Harvest Illikomban eggplants when they reach their full elongated length and the skin is a vibrant emerald green. The fruits are tender at this stage and should be picked regularly to encourage continued production. Use a sharp knife to cut them from the plant rather than pulling, as the slender fruits can be fragile.
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“This is a living piece of South Kerala's agricultural heritage. The Illikomban eggplant was found growing exclusively in Onattukara, a region renowned for its serene mangrove backwaters, agricultural abundance, and ancient temples. The local name reflects how intimately connected this variety is to its place of origin, 'Illikomban' translating to 'long brinjal similar to elephant tusk' in Malayalam. By documenting and offering this heirloom through seed catalogs, this rare treasure is being preserved for gardeners worldwide who can now grow the same variety that has flourished in South Indian gardens for generations.”