
Datil Pepper (Capsicum chinense)
Dear pepper enthusiasts, meet the unique heirloom Datil Pepper! This annual Nightshade fruit, related to Cocona and Tree Tomato, ranks in at 100,000 to 300,000 Scoville heat units (similar to the habanero). Many suggest the pepper is native to Minorca, but the pepper has grown quite a reputation in St. Augustine, FL.
With a tie to a place similar to New Mexico’s hatch peppers, the St. Augustine pepper can be found in many culinary avenues such as hot sauce, pepper jelly, and a popular sauce called “Bottled Hell” used in many St. Augustine seafood dishes. The 3 ½ inch golden orange peppers pack a flavorful punch of spice with sweet, fruity, and tropical undertones. Easy to grow but nearly impossible to find seeds, these frost-sensitive farmers market favorites grow and go fast!
The Datil Pepper plants grow best with plenty of mulch and regular watering and will typically fruit within 90 days of planting. Spice up your life with this heirloom pepper gem!
Plant Type:
Annual fruiting shrub
Harvest Season:
60-90 days after sowing
Late Winter to Mid Summer
Mature Size:
2 ft. tall
Soil & Moisture:
Rich, well-draining soil with average watering. Do not overwater.
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Self-Fertile:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Fast
Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 9-11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Our Datil Pepper Plants are grown from seed and are capable of fruiting within one growing season.