Like potatoes, tomatoes and hot peppers, rosa bianca eggplant (Solanum melongena) is a member of the Solanaceae family. This warm-season vegetable grows fruit that's about 4 to 6 inches in diameter and 5 to 7 inches long. Popular for its creamy flesh and mild flavor, rosa bianca eggplant is native to Southeast Asia. Start the seeds indoors about eight weeks before the last spring frost date in your area. Eggplant - Rosa Bianca - Solanum melongena Tender Annual A gorgeous Italian variety with a delicate, mild flavor, creamy consistency, and no bitterness. Considered one of the best by gourmets and gardeners alike. Fruits are about 4"-6" long and 4"-5" in diameter. Soil Water: Soil should be fertile, well-drained and rich in organic matter, with a pH of 5.8 to 6.8. Eggplant also needs a lot of calcium, so add lime to the soil before you plant. Planting Growing: Transplant to the garden when all danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature has reached 60F. Harvesting Storage: Can harvest anytime after half of the mature size, but don't wait too long, over-ripe fruit is tough and bitter. Eggplants do not store well. Did You Know? Eggplant provides: Chromium, Potassium, Copper, Manganese, Vitamin B6, K, Thiamin, Folate, and Dietary Fiber. Soil Temperature: 75-90F Planting Depth: 1/4" Germination: 10-21 Days Height At Maturity: 2'-2?' Days To Maturity: 80-90 Days Sun/Shade: Full Sun Spacing After Thinning: 18"-24"