White Eggplant was listed along with a purple variety in several eastern United States seed catalogues by 1825 and Jefferson was growing both types at Monticello in 1812. Early catalogues recommended the White Eggplant for ornamental rather than culinary use, but today some people consider it the superior edible type.Also known as melongena, eggplant originated in Asia, where it has been grown for centuries. Eggplant yields egg-shaped fruits, up to six inches long, which turn from ivory to golden yellow when fully ripe.
Related Blog Post: Jefferson-era recipe: Eggplant