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Red Rocoto

Pepper

Planting Schedule

Add Red Rocoto to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.
Botanical illustration of Red Rocoto
90d to harvest

A slow-sunrise heat with a vivid, lantern-bright presence—Red Rocoto ripens to glossy, deep crimson-red fruits that feel firm and substantial in the hand. Expect a lively, smoky-leaning pepper flavor with a crisp, meaty bite, ideal for roasting until the skin blisters, then turning into bold sauces and fiery salsas; its Manzano character shines in pickling for long-lasting punch. For gardeners who love a dramatic harvest, Red Rocoto rewards warm-season patience with peppers that look as striking as they taste.

Crop Dates

Growing note: Frost-free Zone 13a supports continuous outdoor production.
MilestoneDate
ClimateFrost-Free Climate
Growing ApproachContinuous Production

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity90
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitBush
Support NeededStake
Planting DepthNormal
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 pest or disease problem on Capsicum pubescens (red rocoto), and how can I control it?
Rocotos commonly suffer from aphids that cluster on new growth and can lead to stunted plants or sooty mold. Spray infested shoots with a strong water jet, then treat remaining aphids with insecticidal soap, repeating every 5–7 days until new growth is clear. If you see wilt and dark, rotting lower stems, remove affected plants and avoid replanting in the same soil to prevent recurring soilborne issues.
How often should I water Capsicum pubescens during the main growing phase (after transplanting)?
Water deeply so the root zone is evenly moist, then let the top 1 inch of soil dry before watering again—typically every 2–4 days in warm weather, depending on your soil and pot size. Keep moisture consistent during flowering and fruit set to reduce blossom drop and misshapen pods; rocotos hate alternating very dry spells with heavy watering.
Botanical illustration of Red Rocoto

A slow-sunrise heat with a vivid, lantern-bright presence—Red Rocoto ripens to glossy, deep crimson-red fruits that feel firm and substantial in the hand. Expect a lively, smoky-leaning pepper flavor with a crisp, meaty bite, ideal for roasting until the skin blisters, then turning into bold sauces and fiery salsas; its Manzano character shines in pickling for long-lasting punch. For gardeners who love a dramatic harvest, Red Rocoto rewards warm-season patience with peppers that look as striking as they taste.