Yes, they can. Throughout the world, outdoor-grown eggplant come in a wide range of sizes and colors. The choice includes tiny white "pea eggplant", larger round ones in green, yellow, white or purple, and slender, elongated shapes in shades of violet, often streaked with cream or pale green. Whatever their shape and color, always look for unblemished skin, a firm texture and a fresh green calix at the stem.