Rocoto Red Pepper | Capsicum pubescens

This rare and fiery pepper produces apple-shaped red fruits with black seeds, flowering in spring (September–November) and fruiting through summer into early autumn (December-April) in Cape Town’s climate. Known for its fruity, citrus-like flavour and intense heat, it’s a favourite for sauces, salsas, and traditional Peruvian dishes. Thriving in cooler conditions compared to other chillies, it’s well-suited to Cape Town’s mild summers. Add a touch of South American flair to your garden with the bold and flavour-packed Rocoto Red Pepper.

Why You’ll Love It

• Unique apple-shaped red fruits with striking black seeds.
• Fruity flavour with fiery heat (50,000–250,000 Scoville units).
• Long fruiting season in Cape Town’s climate.
• Adds exotic flair to your edible garden.
• Perfect for sauces, salsas, and traditional dishes.

Plant & Care

Plant in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–6.8. Rocoto peppers prefer cooler conditions than most chillies, so semi-shade or morning sun is ideal in Cape Town. Water regularly but avoid waterlogging; mulch to retain moisture during dry summers. Support plants with stakes as they grow bushy and heavy with fruit. Harvest peppers when fully red for best flavour and heat.

Did You Know?

Unlike most chillies, rocoto peppers have black seed, a unique trait that sets them apart from other Capsicum species. They’ve been cultivated for over 8,000 years in the Andes and were a staple in Incan cuisine.