Datil Pepper (Capsicum chinense)

Dear pepper enthusiasts, meet the unique heirloom Datil Pepper! The Datil Pepper is a vibrant and potent variety of chili pepper that boasts a unique flavor profile. Originating from St. Augustine, Florida, it is deeply embedded in local culinary traditions and is believed to have been brought over by immigrants from the Canary Islands in the late 18th century.

This small pepper typically grows to about 3.5 inches in length and is characterized by its slender, tapered shape and a glossy texture that matures from green to a bright yellow or orange color when ripe. The Datil Pepper is renowned for its fiery heat, which is comparable to that of a habanero, scoring between 100,000 to 300,000 on the Scoville heat scale. Despite its intensity, it is distinguished by its sweet, fruity undertones, making it a favorite ingredient in hot sauces, mustards, and a variety of spicy dishes.

Cultivating Datil Peppers requires a warm climate, thriving in USDA hardiness zones 8 through 11. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, and benefit from consistent moisture and regular feeding, especially during the flowering and fruiting stages. These peppers are typically harvested in the late summer through early fall.

In addition to their culinary use, Datil Peppers are celebrated during the annual Datil Pepper Festival in St. Augustine, where they are showcased in various dishes and condiments like pepper jelly or a hot sauce coined 'Bottled Hell'. This pepper is not only a staple in local kitchens but also an integral part of the cultural heritage of the region, embodying a rich history and community pride in every fiery bite!

Easy to grow but nearly impossible to find seeds, these frost-sensitive farmers market favorites grow and go fast! Spice up your life with this heirloom pepper gem!