Hot Pepper Seeds, Aji Charapita

star-filled
3.6
82 Reviews
Sku:
#HPP221
Min. seed count:
15
$4.00

Description

(Capsicum chinense). Selling for very high prices to Lima’s best chefs, this pepper is reported to be the most expensive in the world! The north Peruvian jungle native produces hundreds of hot, small (1/4 inch), round Tepin-like peppers. The pepper has a distinct fruity, citrusy aroma and is equal in heat to a cayenne pepper. Used fresh, this tiny pepper is known to have a strong fruity flavor that gives salsas and sauces a unique tropical taste. More often, it is used as a powder for various dishes. Baker Creek's Shannie McCabe and Deb Vlietstra found this variety growing in a pot in a Peruvian friend's house.

  • 90-120 days to maturity
  • 8-12 hours of full sun
  • Sprouts in 7-10 days
  • Seed Depth: 1/4"
  • Plant Spacing: 14-18"
  • Ideal Temperature: 70-95 F
  • Frost Hardy: No

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

Aji Charapita hot pepper is compact and bushy, and the plants adapt well to warm climates with high humidity, making them suitable for containers in most regions. They appreciate a bit of afternoon shade during the hottest summer weather and thrive in rich, well-draining soil​.

When to Grow

Start Aji Charapita seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before your region's last spring frost, then transplant once outdoor temperatures are consistently above 65 F. In very warm regions (Zones 9+), they can even survive and produce year-round with proper care​.

How to Sow and Plant

Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep in warm, moist soil (80-85 F) to encourage germination, which takes around 7-10 days. Transplant seedlings outdoors with 14-18 inches between plants or grow in containers with well-draining soil​.

How to Grow

Keep the soil evenly moist, fertilize every 4-6 weeks, and prune lightly to encourage bushiness. Watch for pests like aphids, treating them with insecticidal soap if needed. Stakes can help support branches laden with peppers​.

How to Save

  • Peppers are mainly self-pollinating, but bees occasionally work pepper flowers as well.
  • To be absolutely sure that you will not have any crossing, different varieties should be isolated by at least 500 feet.
  • To save seed, allow the fruit to mature fully; then simply remove seeds.
  • It is a good idea to wear gloves when working with very hot peppers, and to consider wearing a mask when working with a large quantity of dried seeds.
  • Let seeds dry for a week before storing them in a jar.
  • Pepper seeds will remain viable for up to 5 years.

FAQ

How long do Aji Charapita peppers take to mature?
Generally, they mature 90-120 days from planting.

Can Aji Charapita peppers grow indoors?
Yes, they can grow well in containers if given warmth and sunlight.

How do Aji Charapita peppers taste?
They have a fruity and floral taste, with a citrusy heat perfect for salsas and sauces.

delivery
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Hot Pepper Seeds, Aji Charapita
star-filled
3.6
Customer reviews (82)

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