Hansel Eggplant

Hansel is a compact, early-maturing eggplant that produces clusters of glossy black-purple fruit. PanAmerican lists 50–55 days from transplant and fruit sizes of 2–3 inches for baby harvest or 6–10 inches at full size. ## Growth and Site Grow Hansel in full sun and warm weather in fertile, well-drained soil. It is suited to a garden bed or a large container; the breeder describes plants around 3 feet tall and says support may be used or omitted. Keep soil moisture steady, especially while flowers set and fruit develops, and mulch to slow drying. ## Harvest and Use Pick fruit while the skin is glossy and smooth. The tender, non-bitter fruit works in a range of cooked dishes; harvest at the baby stage for smaller fruit or leave it to reach the listed full size. The crop is listed as summer-blooming by [PanAmerican Seed](https://www.panamseed.com/products/024400001020098/eggplant-hansel/). General eggplant guidance from [UC IPM](https://ipm.ucanr.edu/home-and-landscape/cultural-tips-for-growing-eggplant/) emphasizes full sun, warm conditions, well-drained soil, and avoiding water stress. ## Maintenance Water consistently rather than allowing the root zone to dry during fruiting. The breeder notes that plants can grow with or without support; add a stake or cage if a plant becomes top-heavy under its fruit load.