Carolina Cayenne

Pepper

80d to harvest

Aromatic and boldly piquant, Carolina Cayenne brings a vivid, sunlit heat that builds with every bite—bright, peppery, and unmistakably lively. Long, slender pods ripen to a warm red glow with a smooth, taut skin, offering a crisp snap and a clean, fiery finish. Ideal for drying, grinding, and flavoring sauces, this cayenne is a garden favorite for gardeners who love to capture its heat in bold, versatile forms.

Crop Dates

Growing note: Frost-free Zone 12a supports continuous outdoor production.

Milestone	Date
Climate	Frost-Free Climate
Growing Approach	Continuous Production

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most common disease issue with Capsicum annuum (Carolina Cayenne) and how do I manage it?

Hot-pepper types like Carolina Cayenne commonly get fungal leaf spots or blights in humid weather; look for dark, water-soaked spots that spread and cause leaf drop. Remove affected leaves early, avoid wetting foliage when you water, and improve airflow with wider spacing and light pruning of overly dense growth. If problems spread, apply a labeled fungicide suitable for peppers and repeat as directed on the label.

How often should I water Carolina Cayenne during the main growing phase (after transplanting)?

During active growth and while fruits are forming, keep soil evenly moist but never soggy—aim for about 1–2 inches of water per week, adjusting for heat and container size. Water deeply when the top 1 inch of soil dries out, and ensure drainage is excellent to prevent root stress. Inconsistent moisture can lead to blossom-end rot and uneven fruit development in Capsicum annuum.

How can I tell when Carolina Cayenne is ready to harvest?

Harvest when pods reach their full length and have turned from green to their mature color (typically red) with firm, glossy skin and a slightly crisp feel. Many Carolina Cayenne selections mature around ~80 days from transplant, but use color and size as the primary cues. For a hotter, more fully developed pepper, wait until the pods are fully colored; for a milder flavor, you can pick earlier while still green.