Qi Ye Round Eggplant on a white background.
Cut and whole Qi Ye Round Eggplants with an authentic Chinese eggplant recipe on a white plate.
A trio of Qi Ye Round Eggplants on a Chinese newspaper with money and coins.
Three Qi Ye Round Eggplants on a wooden background.
Qi Ye Round Eggplants with leaves and blooms on jade background.
Whole and cut Qi Ye Round Eggplants with purple blooms and red veined leaves on wood.
Qi Ye Round Eggplant on a white background.
Cut and whole Qi Ye Round Eggplants with an authentic Chinese eggplant recipe on a white plate.
A trio of Qi Ye Round Eggplants on a Chinese newspaper with money and coins.
Three Qi Ye Round Eggplants on a wooden background.
Qi Ye Round Eggplants with leaves and blooms on jade background.
Whole and cut Qi Ye Round Eggplants with purple blooms and red veined leaves on wood.

Eggplant Seeds,
Qi Ye Round

51 Review#EG217 · 25 seeds
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Description

(Solanum melongena). This early, fast-ripening, globe-shaped eggplant was introduced to the U.S. from China in the late 1970s. It it is called "seven leaf eggplant" because it was said to start blooming after only 7 leaves had developed. In any case, they grow quickly and are very productive in good soil. The plants themselves generally remain small, making them great for small gardens as well as short seasons. Their dark purple skin is rich in anthocyanins, and their dark purplish stems and leaves may help them resist pest infestations better than other varieties. And did we mention they are as delicious as they are beautiful? With buttery, firm flesh and a mellow flavor, this variety is perfect for grilling or using in any of your favorite recipes.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Solanum melongena
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
6–8 hr.
Days to Germinate
10–15
Days to Maturity
60–70
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
18 in.
Ideal Temperature
75–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant outdoors after all danger of frost has passed, and nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 55 F. Soil should be warmed up to at least 65 F. Qi Ye Round grows well in USDA zones 5–10, but in cooler regions, row covers or black plastic mulch can help retain soil warmth and extend the growing season. If you are not sure how to find your local frost dates, check out our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources' to help you determine the best planting schedule.

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix and maintain a soil temperature of 75–85 F for germination. Harden off seedlings 7–10 days before transplanting. Plant them in full sun, spacing 18 inches apart. Enrich the soil with compost or aged manure. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

How to Grow

Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, watering deeply once or twice a week. Fertilize with a balanced or high-potassium fertilizer when plants begin flowering and setting fruit. Protect against pests like flea beetles and aphids using neem oil, insecticidal soap, or row covers. Ensure proper air circulation around plants to prevent fungal diseases. Harvest fruits frequently to keep the plants productive.

How to Save Seeds

  • Eggplants are not insect-pollinated, so it is not necessary to isolate the plants very much to ensure pure seed. For home gardeners, an isolation distance of at least 40 feet is sufficient for seed saving.
  • Allow fruit to become overripe; the fruit will become slightly wrinkled and soft.
  • Scoop seeds out, rinse, and spread out to dry thoroughly.
  • Properly stored eggplant seeds will remain viable for up to 4 years.

FAQ

How long does it take for Qi Ye Round eggplant to mature?

This variety matures early, typically within 60–70 days after transplanting.

Can Qi Ye Round eggplant grow in containers?

Yes, it grows well in containers of at least 5 gallons with good drainage and nutrient-rich soil.

How do I know when Qi Ye Round eggplant is ready to harvest?

Harvest when the fruits are glossy and firm and the flesh springs back to light pressure. A dull skin and hard, set seed mean the fruit has gone past its prime.

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Customer reviews

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