The Ruffled Red Eggplant ‘Pumpkin on a Stick’ (Solanum melongena) is a striking ornamental eggplant that produces bright red, ribbed fruits resembling miniature pumpkins. Highly valued for fall decorations, arrangements, and unique garden displays, this versatile plant is also edible when harvested early. It thrives in warm climates and grows well in containers as well as garden beds.

Key Features

• Produces bright red, deeply ribbed fruits that resemble small pumpkins

• Excellent as an ornamental for displays, arrangements, and garden décor

• Edible when picked young

• Compact, bushy growth habit

• Performs well in warm seasons

• Non-GMO, high-quality seeds

Specifications

• Common Name: Ruffled Red Eggplant, Pumpkin on a Stick

• Botanical Name: Solanum melongena

• Seed Type: Non-GMO

• Plant Type: Edible and ornamental annual

• Fruit Color: Green to orange, turning bright red

• Maturity: 70–80 days

• Plant Height: 3–4 ft

• USDA Zones: 3–11 (grown as a warm-season annual)

• Sun Exposure: Full sun

• Soil Requirements: Well-drained fertile soil

• Water Needs: Moderate, consistent moisture

• Spacing: 18–24 inches between plants

Planting Guide

1. Sowing Time: Start indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost.

2. Sowing Depth: ¼ inch deep in seed-starting mix.

3. Germination: 10–20 days with warm soil (75–85°F).

4. Transplanting: Move outdoors after frost when temperatures are consistently warm.

5. Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, avoiding overwatering.

6. Sunlight: Requires full sun for strong growth and fruit coloring.

7. Soil Prep: Use loose, fertile soil for best performance.

8. Care Tips:

   • Stake plants if heavy with fruit.

   • Harvest early for edible use; allow full ripening for ornamental color.