- Spectacular colour change: The fruits undergo a unique spectrum of colours, ranging from pale ivory/white through to bright violet and finally a warm yellow-orange when fully ripe.
- Andean rarity: A traditional variety that is still considered a real insider’s tip amongst chilli lovers in Europe.
- Robust growth: Like many highland varieties, it is adaptable and, with good care, produces an impressive number of fruits.
Plant characteristics
The plant reflects the typical vitality of the Baccatum family:
- Growth habit: It grows very vigorously, upright and with many branches. Due to its spreading growth, it requires some space or a support.
- Height: In the garden or in a large pot, the plant easily reaches a height of 1.00 to 1.50 metres.
- Leaves & flowers: The foliage is light green and forms a beautiful contrast to the white flowers, which – typical of Baccatum – bear yellow-green spots on the inside.
- Ornamental value: Thanks to the fruits, which glow in different stages of ripeness (white, purple, yellow) at the same time, it is a decorative feature for any balcony or garden.
The Fruit
The Aji Challuaruro Amarillo produces slender, elegant pods:
- Shape: The fruits are elongated and pointed, approximately 6 to 9 cm long, and usually hang in large numbers from the branches.
- Special feature: The purple colouring often appears as sun protection on the ivory-coloured unripe fruits before they eventually turn into the final yellow-orange hue.
- Texture: The fruit wall is crisp and firm, providing a pleasant bite.
Flavour & heat level
In terms of flavour, it offers the typical, zesty freshness of Peruvian Aji varieties.
- Heat level: Medium-hot (approx. 15,000 to 30,000 SHU). On a scale of 1 to 10, this corresponds roughly to a 6.
- Aroma: It has a very clean, almost lemony aroma with the fruity sweetness typical of Baccatums on the finish. Its flavour is ‘lighter’ and more tangy than the heavier Aji Amarillo.
Uses
Thanks to its tanginess and firm texture, it is highly versatile:
- Fresh: Sliced into fine rings, it is the perfect accompaniment to fish dishes, ceviche or summer salads.
- Salsas: It lends sauces not only a pleasant warmth but also a fruity depth.
- Pickling: Due to its firm skin, it is ideal for pickling in vinegar brine, retaining its shape well.
Technical details
- Type: Capsicum baccatum
- Contents: 10+ seeds
- Heat level: 6 (medium hot)
- Sowing: February to March (pre-sowing under glass/artificial light recommended)
- Maturation time: approx. 80–90 days (after flowering)
- Location: Full sun, requires regular fertilisation and sufficient water.
@CUSTOMER_NAME@
@AUTHOR_PROFILE@ @COMMENT_ISO_COUNTRY@@COMMENT_TITLE@
@COMMENT_COMMENT@