The Wonderful World of Peppers

The Wonderful World of Peppers

🌶️ The Wonderful World of Peppers

Peppers aren’t just about heat—they’re about flavor, fragrance, and diversity. At Rasmussen Gardens, we grow over 100 pepper varieties across all five domesticated Capsicum species. Here’s a closer look at each one:

Capsicum annuum

  • Info: The most commercially grown species.
  • Common varieties: Bell peppers, Jalapeños, Poblano
  • Flavor: Mild to medium heat, crisp, sweet or smoky
  • Traits: Wide range of colors and shapes
  • Best uses: Fresh, roasted, stuffed, pickled, or dried
Workhorse of Mexican cooking and a great starting point for beginner growers.

Capsicum baccatum

  • Info: South American species not normally commercially grown.
  • Common varieties: Aji Amarillo, Aji Limo
  • Flavor: Fruity, tangy, floral, sometimes smoky
  • Traits: Smaller pods, colorful blooms, often tall plants, distinctive pod shapes
  • Best uses: Fresh or dried; ideal in sauces and ceviche
Famous for their citrusy zing—these are perfect for bright, fresh salsas.

Capsicum chinense

  • Info: The worlds hottest varieties belong to this species.
  • Common varieties: Habanero, Scotch Bonnet, Carolina Reaper, Biquinho
  • Flavor: Citrus, floral, tropical, fruity, fiery
  • Traits: Wrinkled pods, slow to germinate, heat-lovers
  • Best uses: Hot sauces, salsas, and spicy dishes
Don’t be fooled—there are also sweet varieties in this group, like Habanada and Biquinho.

Capsicum frutescens

  • Info: Always pointing to the sky.
  • Common varieties: Tabasco, Peri Peri, Malagueta
  • Flavor: Hot, tangy, sharp, thin-walled
  • Traits: Small pods that point upward
  • Best uses: Sauce making, drying, and compact ornamental containers
These tiny powerhouses are packed with flavor and perfect for fermenting into sauces.

Capsicum pubescens

  • Info: The least diverse of the species but the hardiest living. AKA chilli tree.
  • Common varieties: Rocoto, Manzano
  • Flavor: Fruity, juicy, earthy, and very hot
  • Traits: Fuzzy leaves, purple flowers, black seeds, long-lived (up to 10+ years!)
  • Best uses: Stuffed, fresh salsa, grilling
These are the cool-climate champs—perfect for growers in temperate zones looking for something unique.

đź’ˇ Want to grow your own? Check out our Pepper Seed Collection and grab a variety that suits your taste and garden space.

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