Aji Cristal

Pepper

Zone 12a Save Garden

🌱 80d to harvest Upright

Aji Cristal greets you with a luminous, crystal-bright heat—fruity and aromatic, like tropical citrus unfolding into a clean, lin…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Nov 6th
Last Frost	Jan 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Feb 26th
Harvest Begins	May 17th
Harvest Ends	Dec 31st

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	80
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

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Australian Outback Basil

Mrs. Burn's Lemon Basil

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most commonly affects Capsicum baccatum (Aji Cristal), and how can I control it?

Aji Cristal is especially prone to aphids and whiteflies, which often show up on tender new growth and can lead to sooty mold. Spray the undersides of leaves with insecticidal soap, repeat every 5–7 days for 2–3 rounds, and remove heavily infested tips to prevent buildup. If you see gray mold-like patches or leaf spotting in humid weather, improve airflow and avoid wetting foliage during watering; discard badly infected plants to stop spread.

How often should I water Aji Cristal during the main growing phase?

During active flowering and fruiting (roughly after plants are established), keep soil consistently lightly moist but not waterlogged. In most home gardens this means watering about 2–3 times per week in warm weather, then adjusting so the top 1 inch of soil dries before the next watering. Capsicum baccatum will drop flowers if the soil swings too dry, so aim for steady moisture, especially from bloom to harvest.

How can I tell when Aji Cristal peppers are ready to harvest?

Harvest at about 80 days when the fruits have fully colored and feel firm—Aji Cristal typically progresses from green to its final yellow/orange-red tones as it ripens. Pick a few test fruits and taste: mature peppers should have a bright, complex heat and a crisp skin. If fruits stay small or remain mostly green long past the 80-day mark, give them a little more time in full sun and ensure consistent watering to finish ripening.

Aji Cristal greets you with a luminous, crystal-bright heat—fruity and aromatic, like tropical citrus unfolding into a clean, lingering warmth. The peppers ripen to a glossy, translucent yellow-orange and develop a pleasantly crisp, thin-walled texture that shines in fresh salsas and vibrant sauces. Grow Aji Cristal for its showy, lantern-like pods and its bold, distinctive Aji character that elevates every batch you make.

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

For best flavor, transplant only after soil is consistently warm (about 60°F+) and keep moisture even to avoid blossom drop.