Capsicum baccatum 'Aji Amarillo'
fruit vegetable

Aji Amarillo

Capsicum baccatum 'Aji Amarillo'

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:

Ornamental UsesBrightly colored peppers add visual interest to gardens.
Practical UsesProvides spicy fruit for culinary uses.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators when flowering.

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

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds ¼ inch deep in well-draining soil in late winter indoors.
  2. Maintain soil temperature at 75-85°F for optimal germination.
  3. Mist cuttings lightly to keep humidity high during rooting.
  4. Transplant seedlings outdoors after danger of frost has passed, typically 2-3 months.
  5. Water regularly, ensuring soil stays moist but not waterlogged.
  6. 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

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Harvest
Plant
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant edible borderColorful, spicy accent in vegetable gardens

Companion Plants

Basil Marigolds Cilantro Tomatoes

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.

Keep exploring

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.