Eggplant, Melanzana Rossa di Rotonda - 3" Starter Pot - Solanum Aethiopicum

Name: Melanzana Rossa di Rotonda, Italian Red Eggplant

Scientific Name: Solanum aethiopicum

Family Name: Solanaceae

Product Description:

Melanzana Rossa di Rotonda is a rare Italian heirloom eggplant known for its round, tomato‑like fruits that ripen to a vivid orange‑red. Despite its appearance, it is a true eggplant with firm flesh and a bold, slightly bitter flavor traditionally used in Southern Italian cuisine. Plants are compact and productive, thriving in heat and full sun. The fruits transition from green to orange to deep red, creating a striking ornamental display as well as a flavorful harvest. This variety is prized for its unique color, regional heritage, and adaptability to containers or garden beds.

Origination: Native to Rotonda, Basilicata, Southern Italy; regional specialty.

Historic Uses: Culinary

Height: 24–36 Inches

Hardiness: Annual in most climates; perennial in frost‑free regions (USDA Zones 10–11).

Flower Color: White to pale violet star‑shaped blooms typical of the Solanaceae family.

Maturity: Mid‑season producer; 70–80 days to first harvest.

Other Names: Red Eggplant of Rotonda, Italian Scarlet Eggplant, Rotonda Red Eggplant.

Growing Conditions:

Provide full sun and warm temperatures for best growth and fruiting. Use well‑draining, fertile soil enriched with compost or organic matter. Water regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Avoid prolonged cold or frost. Plants perform well in garden beds or large containers and may benefit from light staking once fruiting begins. Fertilize moderately during active growth and fruit production.

Ships in 3" pots. You will receive a plant similar to the ones pictured, though size and fullness may vary. Please understand that shipped plants have bumpy rides. A few broken leaves or small stems are normal during shipping and are not considered damage. Broken stems can be rooted once the cut end dries to start new growth. Plants may arrive semi‑dormant, and in winter they may naturally drop a few leaves. If your plant arrives rotting or dead, we will replace it. Please contact us with photo proof within 24 hours of delivery. After 24 hours, plant care becomes the buyer’s responsibility, though we’re always happy to answer questions and help you succeed. We also add brief instructions on getting started when you open your box. We want our plant babies to have happy new homes! 🥰

Heat packs are available to purchase in our shop for cold-sensitive plants. Keep in mind some plants we carry are very tropical and even cold, not freezing, temperatures can kill them. 📌IF YOU EXPECT COLD WEATHER, PLEASE PURCHASE A HEAT PACK! 📌 These are necessary for winter shipping, so I sell them at cost. I won't refund or replace any frozen plants unless you buy one!

❗Please Read!❗

Items cannot be shipped to CALIFORNIA or ARIZONA easily due to state import laws. All plants shipped there must be inspected before entry. Seed-grown herbaceous plants may not survive transit. I cannot guarantee herbaceous plant orders from these states, so order at your own risk. Hoyas, cacti, and succulents are an exception. My apologies for any inconvenience.