Whole and sliced Asante Hot Peppers on a white background.
Hot Pepper Seeds, Asante
A detailed close-up view of a couple of Asante Hot peppers on a white background.
Whole and sliced Asante Hot Peppers on a white background.
Hot Pepper Seeds, Asante
A detailed close-up view of a couple of Asante Hot peppers on a white background.

Hot Pepper Seeds,
Asante

SKU: #HPP257Min. seed count: 15
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Description

(Capsicum annuum) Asante, or Ashanti pepper, as the name suggests, originated in the Ashanti region, specifically Kumasi, in Ghana, West Africa. This pepper variety has been cultivated and marketed by the people of Kumasi and other parts of Ghana for over 500 years. It quickly became a local favorite and spread to other regions of the country and even beyond its borders. Today, it is still widely cultivated throughout Ghana. Ashanti pepper is a key ingredient in shito, a renowned Ghanaian hot chile condiment with a deep, earthy, smoky, and slightly fishy flavor. Beyond shito, this pepper can be used to add a spicy kick to any dish that requires a bit of heat.

Growing Tips: The Asante pepper is a compact, prolific heirloom pepper that thrives in rich, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0–6.8. It prefers full sun exposure, although a bit of afternoon shade can help during intense heat.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Capsicum annuum
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
8–12 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
70–90
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
14–18 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Start Asante pepper seeds indoors 8–12 weeks before the last expected frost. Transplant outdoors when temperatures consistently stay above 65 F, which usually happens 2–3 weeks after the last frost. These peppers thrive in the summer heat and can be brought indoors to overwinter in regions with shorter growing seasons, extending their productivity for the next season​. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting trays or pots filled with a light, well-draining seed mix. Once seedlings are 4–6 inches tall with multiple sets of true leaves, transplant them outdoors into prepared garden beds or large containers. Space plants 14-18 inches apart for adequate air circulation, which helps prevent fungal issues​.

How to Grow

Asante peppers require consistent watering, particularly during flowering and fruit development. Mulching around the base of the plants helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Staking may help support the plants as they grow and produce abundant, heavy peppers. If growing in containers, use a pot of at least 5 gallons to ensure ample root space​.

How to Save Seeds

  • 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 hot are Asante peppers?

Asante peppers are extremely spicy, ideal for those who enjoy heat, comparable to other small, fiery pepper varieties.

Can I grow Asante peppers in containers?

Yes, they do well in containers; use a pot of at least 5 gallons with good drainage.

What are common pests and diseases for Asante peppers?

Watch for aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Regularly inspect plants and use organic treatments like neem oil to manage pests.

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