Datil Hot Peppers on a white background.
Hot Pepper Seeds, Datil
Orange and green Datil peppers with jelly.
Orange and green Datil Pepper stack.
Datil Peppers still on plant in garden.
Green and yellow Datil Peppers on wooden table top.
Datil Hot Peppers on a white background.
Hot Pepper Seeds, Datil
Orange and green Datil peppers with jelly.
Orange and green Datil Pepper stack.
Datil Peppers still on plant in garden.
Green and yellow Datil Peppers on wooden table top.

Hot Pepper Seeds,
Datil

443 ReviewsSKU: #HPP191Min. seed count: 25
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Description

(Capsicum chinense). BURSTING with fruity, hot goodness! Perfect for spicy salsas, sauces, and fabulous jellies! The renowned pepper originating from St. Augustine, Florida. Local legend says the peppers were brought there from Spain, where they do enjoy a following in Minorca. However, they may also have originated in Chile. Blazing hot, blunt little 3.5-inch fruit ripens to a brilliant orange yellow. The heat is vicious, being comparable to habanero types, but the flavor is more complex, sweeter, and more fruity.

Growing Tips: Datil peppers are an heirloom variety that grows best in well-draining, rich, slightly acidic soil. The plants require full sun for 8-12 hours daily; however, they also appreciate a bit of afternoon shade during the peak of summer. To improve germination, keep the soil temperatures between 80-85 F. Using a heat mat can be helpful, as Datil peppers can be slow to sprout.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Capsicum chinense
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
8–12 hr.
Days to Germinate
10–14
Days to Maturity
90–100
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
14–18 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Datil peppers require a long, warm growing season. Start seeds indoors 8–12 weeks before the last expected frost in late winter or early spring. Once all frost risk has passed and nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 65 F, seedlings can be transplanted outdoors. In zones with shorter growing seasons, consider container growing to easily move plants indoors during cooler weather​. 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 1/4 inch deep in a well-draining seed-starting mix. After sprouting, place seedlings in full sun, or provide them with artificial light. Transplant seedlings when the soil has warmed up, spacing the plants 14-18 inches apart. For container growing, use pots that are at least 2 gallons to accommodate their growth​.

How to Grow

Water deeply but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to avoid root rot. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks. As the plants grow, staking or caging can help support branches laden with peppers. These plants typically reach 2–3 feet in height and begin fruiting 90–100 days after transplanting​.

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

Can Datil peppers be grown indoors?

Yes, they adapt well to containers and can be kept indoors with sufficient light. A sunny window or grow lights will be the best.

What are some common uses for Datil peppers?

Datil peppers are popular in hot sauces, salsas, and relishes due to their complex, sweeter, fruitier flavor, though the heat is fierce, comparable to habanero types. They can also be used in marinades, stews, and jellies.

How can I protect Datil pepper plants from pests?

Datil peppers can attract pests like aphids and spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for control, and planting with companion plants like basil or marigold may help deter pests.

Browse our full range of pepper seeds.

Also note:

The Datil pepper is one of the celebrated varieties mentioned in our recent article about festivals devoted to heirloom vegetables!
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