Aji Cito

Pepper

Zone 12a Save Garden

🌱 85d to harvest Upright

Aji Cito arrives with a bright, lively heat that blooms quickly—fruity and tangy at first, then warming into a clean, lingering s…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Nov 13th
Last Frost	Jan 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Feb 26th
Harvest Begins	May 22nd
Harvest Ends	Dec 31st

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	85
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	Stake
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	80
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	10

Recommended Companions

Purple Ruffles Basil Basil

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease is most common on Capsicum baccatum (aji cito) and how can I control it?

Watch for spider mites and aphids, especially in hot, dry weather; they cause stippling and distorted new growth on Capsicum baccatum. Spray the undersides of leaves with a strong jet of water, then apply insecticidal soap and repeat every 5–7 days until you see no new damage. Also keep foliage dry and remove heavily infected leaves promptly to reduce fungal leaf spots.

How often should I water aji cito during the main growing phase, and what soil moisture level is ideal?

During active flowering and fruit set, keep the root zone consistently evenly moist—about 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) of water per week depending on heat and soil—without letting it stay soggy. Let the top 1 inch (2.5 cm) of soil dry slightly between waterings, then water deeply so moisture reaches the full pot/bed depth. Irregular watering is a common trigger for blossom-end issues and stunted fruiting in peppers.

How do I know when my aji cito (Capsicum baccatum) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when the pods reach the expected size (about 85 days from transplant) and the skin fully changes from green to its mature color, with a firm pod that feels crisp rather than soft. If you want heat and flavor, pick at full maturity rather than early green; fully ripened Capsicum baccatum pods typically have the strongest aroma. Use scissors or snips to avoid tearing the plant.

Aji Cito arrives with a bright, lively heat that blooms quickly—fruity and tangy at first, then warming into a clean, lingering sting. The peppers mature to a vivid, lantern-like color and hang in graceful clusters, with a thin, supple wall that’s crisp-fresh and richly aromatic when dried or used for bold flavoring. Ideal for gardeners who love specialty shapes, Aji Cito shines in salsas and sauces, and it also makes a standout pickling pepper for adding vivid heat and character.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 10 days first.

Expert Note

Start seeds with warm temps and transplant only after soil reaches at least 60°F to avoid cold-stress and delayed flowering in baccatum peppers.