Pequin hot pepper chili plants bring a fiery kick to your garden with a compact, productive growth habit. These live plants are perfect for anyone seeking a manageable, spicy addition to their outdoor space. Known for their intense heat, pequins are ideal for cooks who want to add genuine heat with a touch of fruity complexity.

These peppers grow up to 12-24 inches tall and produce bright red, small chili pods. Often confused with chiltepin peppers, pequins are distinguished by their elongated fruit. Both types are known as bird peppers due to their role in wildlife seed distribution, with birds enjoying their heat-free taste and dispersing the seeds far and wide.

Pequin chili plants thrive in zones 9-11. They prefer well-drained soil but tolerate various types, making them highly adaptable. This hardy pepper loves full sun exposure and performs well in containers for those with limited garden space. Whether in pots or garden beds, pequins bring a lively burst of flavor to any setting.

Caring for pequin hot pepper plants is straightforward. Keep the soil evenly moist but avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot. Fertilize lightly every few weeks during the growing season to encourage fruit production. Prune to maintain shape and encourage branching. Harvest the peppers once they ripen to vibrant red for maximum flavor and heat.

With their bold flavor and compact growth, pequin hot pepper chili plants fit perfectly in various gardening setups, from urban balconies to backyard gardens. These spicy peppers not only elevate culinary dishes but also serve as decorative plants with vibrant fruits that attract birds and add a pop of color to the landscape. Enjoy them fresh or dried to experience the rich, fruity heat they bring to any dish!

Key Features:

• Type of plant: Pequin chili pepper (Capsicum annuum var. glabriusculum)
• Condition: Live plant (2 Count)
• Mature Size: 12-24 inches tall, 10-12 inches wide
• Growing Conditions: Well-drained soil, container-friendly
• USDA Zone Growing: Zones 9-11
• Soil Type: Loamy, sandy, or well-draining garden soil
• Sunlight Exposure: Full sun (6-8 hours daily)
• Expected Planting Period: Spring to early summer

FAQ:

1. How hot are pequin chili peppers?
Pequin peppers range between 30,000 and 60,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU), making them much hotter than jalapeños but slightly milder than habaneros.

2. Can pequin peppers be grown in containers?
Yes, their compact size makes them perfect for container gardening. Just ensure the pot has good drainage and receives plenty of sunlight.

3. What is the best time to plant these peppers?
Plant pequin peppers in spring or early summer, once the soil has warmed to at least 60°F (15°C).

4. How do I care for pequin chili plants in colder climates?
In colder zones, grow them indoors or in containers that can be moved indoors before the first frost.

5. Are pequin and chiltepin peppers the same?
Though often confused, they differ in shape and flavor. Pequins have an elongated shape with a fruity, smoky flavor, while chiltepins are round with a sharper heat.