Heirloom Chiltepin Chili Pepper Seeds
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Product Specifications:
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Common Name: Chiltepin Chili Pepper
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Botanical Name: Capsicum annuum var. glabriusculum
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Seed Count: Varies (commonly 10–25 per packet)
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Scoville Heat Units: 50,000–100,000 SHU
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Plant Type: Perennial (in warm climates), Annual (in cooler climates)
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Height: 2–4 feet
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Sun Requirements: Full sun
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Soil Preference: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
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Watering Needs: Moderate – avoid overwatering
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Hardiness Zones: USDA 9–11 (perennial), 5–8 (annual)
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Time to Maturity: 90–120 days
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Germination Time: 14–28 days
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Uses: Salsas, hot sauces, dried spice, culinary dishes
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Flavor Profile: Fruity, smoky, with a fast and intense heat burst
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Growth Habit: Bushy, compact, with tiny round red fruits
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Special Features: Native to the American Southwest and Mexico, drought-tolerant, highly pungent, beloved by birds
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Ideal For: Containers, raised beds, hot pepper collections, spice gardens
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Difficulty Level: Moderate (germination can be slow)
I use chiltepin in a lot of my southwestern recipes, and growing it at home has been a game changer. The flavor is wild and fruity with serious heat—just what I needed.
These took a while to germinate, so be patient. Once they sprouted, though, they grew strong and steady. The peppers are intense and perfect for drying and seasoning.
I wanted to grow something with real heritage, and these chiltepins did not disappoint. Traditional flavor with a serious kick. Great for grinding into flakes or making chili oil.
Grew one plant in a 3-gallon pot on the balcony—it did just fine! Compact, bushy growth with lots of little peppers. They’re fiery, so a little goes a long way in salsa.
I planted these in a raised bed with full sun and minimal watering, and they still produced loads of peppers. The fruits are small, but the flavor and heat make up for it tenfold.