The Story
Plant Bio
Aji Amarillo is a hot pepper variety known for its distinct fruity flavor and vibrant yellow color when ripe.
This cultivar is notable for its high capsaicin content and is commonly used in Peruvian cuisine.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Fruit Vegetable
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Annual
Native To
South America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds ¼ inch deep in well-draining soil in late winter indoors.
- Maintain soil temperature at 75-85°F for optimal germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly to keep humidity high during rooting.
- Transplant seedlings outdoors after danger of frost has passed, typically 2-3 months.
- Water regularly, ensuring soil stays moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilize monthly with balanced organic fertilizer for vigorous growth.
Pro Tip
Use warm, consistent temperatures and provide full sun for best fruit development.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil evenly moist 💧
- Feed with organic fertilizer monthly 🌱
- Prune to improve air circulation and remove dead leaves
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t transplant in cold weather ❌
- Refrain from using chemical pesticides excessively
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Stake |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Aji Amarillo questions
What zones can Aji Amarillo grow in?
Aji Amarillo is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Aji Amarillo deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Aji Amarillo, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Aji Amarillo bloom?
Aji Amarillo typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Aji Amarillo need full sun?
Aji Amarillo does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Aji Amarillo drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Aji Amarillo handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Capsicum to compare

Sweet Banana Pepper
Capsicum annuum 'Sweet Banana'

Poblano Pepper
Capsicum annuum 'Poblano'

Early Jalapeño
Capsicum annuum 'Early Jalapeno'

Yum Yum Peppers
Capsicum annuum 'Yum Yums Hybrid Mixed Mini Bells'

Golden California Wonder Pepper
Capsicum annuum 'Golden California Wonder'

Serrano Pepper
Capsicum annuum 'Serrano'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Aji Amarillo with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
