Ají Pilange Pepper Seeds – Andean Heirloom | Late Season (Capsicum baccatum)

Ají Pilange is a traditional Andean Capsicum baccatum variety producing pendant pods with medium-thick flesh and a pleasant fruity heat characteristic of the aji family. Pods mature from dark green through orange to red, offering a beautiful color progression and versatile harvest window. A late-season variety well worth the wait for lovers of South American flavors.

Variety Details

• Species: Capsicum baccatum
• Origin: Andean South America
• Pod Size: 0.5–0.75 inches long × 1–1.25 inches wide
• Pod Flesh: Medium thick, pendant
• Color Progression: Dark green → Orange → Red
• Plant Height: 24–30 inches
• Days to Maturity: 80–90 days (late season)

Starting Seeds

• Sow ¼ inch deep indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost
• Germination temperature: 80–85°F — heat mat recommended
• Germination time: 1–4 weeks
• Soak seeds in room-temperature water up to 24 hours before sowing
• Use organic seed-starting mix; avoid jiffy peat pots or standard potting soil
• Transplant outdoors after last frost when soil is consistently warm

Growing Tips

• Full sun with wind protection; fertile, well-drained soil
• Water deeply during hot, dry spells with soaker hoses
• Feed with slow-release fertilizer at transplant
• Grows well in 5-gallon containers
• Harden off over 7–14 days; bring indoors if nights drop below 55°F

Harvest

Harvest at any color stage with garden scissors. Pick regularly to encourage continued fruiting throughout the season.