A Comprehensive Guide to the Best White Eggplant Varieties for Your Garden

When you think of eggplants, the first thing that may come to mind is the iconic deep purple color of traditional varieties. However, did you know that there are white eggplant varieties that offer a unique twist on this classic vegetable?

In this article, we will explore nine of the best white eggplant varieties that you can grow in your garden. From the history of the word “eggplant” to the culinary uses and characteristics of each cultivar, we will delve into the world of unpigmented eggplants and provide you with valuable information to help you make an informed decision about which varieties to grow.

So, let’s dive in and discover the wonderful world of white eggplants!

The History of “Eggplant” and White Varieties

Table of Contents

The term “eggplant” may seem puzzling at first glance, as the vegetable bears no resemblance to an egg in either appearance or taste. The origin of this name can be traced back to England in the 1700s when a new vegetable with a white, egg-shaped appearance was introduced to the culinary scene. This white vegetable, which resembled an egg in shape, was aptly named “eggplant.” Over time, the name stuck and came to encompass not only the white varieties but also the purple ones that we are more familiar with today.

While the deep purple eggplants dominate supermarket shelves, white varieties offer a unique alternative with their thin skins, sweeter taste, and unexpected flavor experiences. These albino-looking cultivars are perfect for home gardeners looking to add a touch of novelty to their vegetable patch.

Benefits of White Eggplant Varieties

Compared to their purple counterparts, many white eggplant cultivars have thinner skins, making them less common in commercial markets. However, this thin skin comes with its own advantages. According to Dr. Leonard Perry, Extension Professor at the University of Vermont, the bitterness often associated with eggplants is largely due to compounds found in the skin. Therefore, thinner-skinned white varieties tend to be milder and sweeter, appealing to those who may have been put off by the bitterness of traditional purple eggplants.

In addition to their unique flavor profile, white eggplants offer culinary versatility and are well-suited for various dishes such as baba ghanoush, stir-fries, and casseroles. Their delicate texture and subtle taste make them a delightful addition to any kitchen.

9 Best White Eggplant Varieties for Your Garden

Now, let’s explore nine of the best white eggplant varieties that you can grow in your garden. From French heirlooms to Italian hybrids, each cultivar offers its own distinctive characteristics and flavors. Whether you prefer elongated, bell-shaped, or oval fruits, there is a white eggplant variety to suit every taste and gardening preference.

1. Casper

Days to Maturity: 70
Fruit Size & Shape: 6 inches; elongated
Flavor & Texture: Mild, mushroom-like; meaty

‘Casper’ is a French heirloom cultivar known for its unique flavor profile and cool-weather tolerance. With elongated ivory-colored fruits and a mild, meaty texture, this variety is a favorite among gardeners looking for a versatile white eggplant.

2. Clara

Days to Maturity: 65-70
Fruit Size & Shape: 6-7 inches long, 4-5 inches wide; cylindrical
Flavor & Texture: Mild, nutty; creamy, meaty

‘Clara’ is an Italian hybrid that produces a prolific harvest of bright, creamy fruits with a nutty undertone. With its cylindrical shape and creamy texture, this variety is perfect for grilling, roasting, or sautéing.

3. Ghostbuster

Days to Maturity: 72-80
Fruit Size & Shape: 6-7 inches long, 4 inches wide; oval
Flavor & Texture: Sweet; creamy

‘Ghostbuster’ is a mid-season hybrid known for its sweet, oval-shaped fruits. With a creamy texture and rich flavor, this variety is a great addition to soups, stews, and curries.

4. Gretel

Days to Maturity: 50-60
Fruit Size & Shape: 3-4 inches; elongated
Flavor & Texture: Sweet, mild; tender

‘Gretel’ is an early-maturing variety with small, ivory-colored fruits and a sweet, tender texture. Whether eaten fresh or cooked, this cultivar offers a delightful flavor that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

5. Japanese White Egg

Days to Maturity: 65
Fruit Size & Shape: 2-3 inches; egg-shaped
Flavor & Texture: Rich, full-flavored; creamy

‘Japanese White Egg’ is a heavy-yielding heirloom with egg-shaped fruits and a rich, creamy taste. Ideal for pickling, roasting, or stuffing, this variety is a versatile option for any culinary adventure.

6. Paloma

Days to Maturity: 65
Fruit Size & Shape: 4-5 inches long, 3 inches wide; bell-shaped
Flavor & Texture: Sweet, mild; creamy

‘Paloma’ is a hybrid cultivar that matures early and produces bell-shaped, slightly ribbed fruits. With a sweet, creamy taste and tender skin, this variety is perfect for grilling, baking, or frying.

7. Snowy

Days to Maturity: 60
Fruit Size & Shape: 8-10 inches; cylindrical
Flavor & Texture: Sweet, mild; delicate

‘Snowy’ is a short-season cultivar with large, cylindrical fruits and a delicate, sweet flavor. Whether sliced, diced, or baked, this variety retains its flavor and texture beautifully in a variety of dishes.

8. Thai White Ribbed

Days to Maturity: 90
Fruit Size & Shape: 3-4 inches; round and flat
Flavor & Texture: Mild, tasty; smooth, creamy

‘Thai White Ribbed’ produces flattened, round fruits with deep ribbing and a mild, creamy taste. With a smooth texture and versatile flavor, this cultivar is a unique addition to salads, stir-fries, and soups.

9. White Comet

Days to Maturity: 70
Fruit Size & Shape: 10 inches long, 2 inches wide; elongated
Flavor & Texture: Sweet, mild; meaty

‘White Comet’ is a Japanese hybrid with elongated, ivory-colored fruits and a meaty, sweet flavor. Whether roasted, grilled, or sautéed, this variety adds a delightful touch to any dish.

Conclusion

In conclusion, white eggplant varieties offer a unique and flavorful alternative to traditional purple cultivars. With their thin skins, sweet taste, and versatile culinary uses, these albino-looking vegetables are a delightful addition to any garden.

Whether you choose ‘Casper’ for its cool-weather tolerance or ‘Gretel’ for its early maturation, there is a white eggplant variety to suit every garden and culinary preference. So why not add a touch of novelty to your vegetable patch and explore the wonderful world of white eggplants?

We hope this comprehensive guide has inspired you to grow your own white eggplant varieties and embark on a delicious culinary journey. Happy gardening!