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Hot pepper 'Rocoto Manzano'

Name: Hot pepper 'Rocoto Manzano'
Brand: Ferme alternative Les Gardiens
SKU: GARD-SEMENCES
Price: 6.99 CAD
Availability: InStock

Common name Rocoto Manzano Pepper

Latin name Capsicum pubescens

Quantity per packet About 10 seeds

It combines improved tolerance to cool temperatures with thick, fruity flesh that is highly versatile in the kitchen. Its ability to be overwintered also distinguishes it from many other pepper varieties.

Product information

Product
identification

Common nameRocoto Manzano Pepper

Latin nameCapsicum pubescens

FamilySolanaceae

TypeHot Pepper

CycleAnnual in Canada

Quantity per packAbout 10 seeds

Code produitFEGAR-0015

Product
description

Rocoto Manzano Hot Pepper (Capsicum pubescens) is a unique and highly distinctive variety valued for its fleshy, small apple-shaped fruits, black seeds, slightly fuzzy foliage, and intense citrus flavor. The fruits ripen from green to yellow, then orange, before reaching a brilliant red at full maturity, adding beautiful ornamental value to the vegetable garden. With moderate heat of about 30,000 SHU, it offers noticeable spice without becoming extreme. Grown as an annual in Canada, it can become very vigorous during the season and may behave as a perennial if protected from frost.

Rocoto Manzano Hot Pepper stands apart from other peppers thanks to its better tolerance of cool temperatures and its preference for gentle full sun to partial shade, especially during hot periods. Start seeds indoors in early March, about 10 to 12 weeks before the last frost, at an ideal temperature of 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F). Germination usually takes 10 to 20 days. After the last frost, plant it in rich, cool, well-drained soil, or in a container of at least 10 L (2.5 gal). Regular watering, fertilization every 2 to 3 weeks, and staking when needed support its vigorous growth.

In the garden, this rocoto is ideal for collector vegetable gardens, large containers, sheltered locations, and plants that can be brought indoors to extend production. It grows well alongside tomatoes, basil, and garlic, while benefiting from being kept away from fennel and beets. Its flowers may attract pollinators, while its tangy, aromatic fruits are excellent in hot sauces, salsas, South American dishes, grilled foods, and stuffed peppers, especially in rocoto relleno-style recipes. Wear gloves when handling to avoid irritation.

Sowing
guide

Sowing periodStart indoors in early March

Best time

Early March indoors; transplant after the last frost

Sowing depth0.5 cm (1/4 in)

Germination temperature20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F)

Germination time10 to 20 days

Propagation

Rocoto Manzano Pepper is propagated primarily from seed. Black seeds collected from fully mature fruits can be dried and stored for future sowings.

Growing
method

Start seeds indoors approximately 10 to 12 weeks before the last expected frost, usually in early March in Canada. Sow seeds in a light, moist, well-drained growing mix while maintaining temperatures between 20 and 25°C (68 to 77°F). Once seedlings emerge, provide strong light to encourage sturdy growth. Transplant seedlings into individual pots after they develop 4 to 6 true leaves. Gradually harden plants off before transplanting outdoors after the last frost. Grow in rich, cool, well-drained soil and stake plants if needed to support their vigorous growth.

Soil
and care

ExposureGentle full sun to light partial shade. Bright exposure with some protection during extreme heat encourages excellent production.

Soil

Rich, fertile, cool, well-drained soil enriched with compost before planting. Maintain consistent moisture without overwatering.

Soil pHSlightly acidic to neutral

Watering

Water regularly to maintain slightly moist soil without overwatering. Avoid prolonged drought, which slows fruit production.

Fertilization

Incorporate mature compost before planting. Apply a balanced fertilizer during vegetative growth, then switch to one slightly higher in potassium during fruit production. Container-grown plants benefit from regular feeding.

Care levelIntermediate

Start seeds indoors under warm conditions to ensure reliable germination. Transplant seedlings after several true leaves develop, then gradually harden them off before planting outdoors after the last frost. During summer, water regularly, fertilize every two to three weeks, and stake plants if needed. Before autumn, move the plant indoors if you wish to extend production.

Container
growing

Recommended pot size

Minimum 10 L (2.5 gal)

Rocoto Manzano Pepper grows exceptionally well in large containers thanks to its vigorous root system and long production season. Use a container of at least 10 L (2.5 gal) with excellent drainage and fill it with a rich vegetable growing mix. Place the plant where it receives gentle morning sun or full sun with light afternoon shade during periods of intense heat. Regular watering, organic mulch, and balanced fertilization every two to three weeks encourage abundant harvests. Since this species tolerates cooler temperatures better than most peppers, plants can be brought indoors before frost to extend production.

Bloom,
harvest
and garden

Rocoto Manzano is a unique variety distinguished by its black seeds, superior cool-weather tolerance, and thick flesh ideal for cooking. Its vigor and extended production make it an excellent choice for Canadian gardeners.

Garden use

Ideal for collector gardens, large containers, patios, sheltered locations, and edible landscapes where its purple flowers, colorful fruits, and black seeds attract as much attention as their outstanding culinary qualities.

Bloom period

Beautiful purple flowers attract numerous beneficial pollinating insects throughout the summer.

Flower colorPurple

Foliage colorMedium green

Harvest

Harvest fruits once they become uniformly bright red and fully developed. Frequent harvesting encourages continued production.

Fruiting

Round, thick-fleshed fruits that ripen from green to yellow, orange, and finally bright red.

Wildlife appealBees and Pollinators

Size
and facts

Height1 to 1.5 m (3 to 5 ft)

Spread50 to 60 cm (20 to 24 in)

Growth rateFast

Minimum temperature5°C (41°F)

Foliage typeSemi-evergreen

Papillonstrue

Planting
partners

Good companions

Tomato, Basil, Garlic

Avoid planting with

Fennel, Beet

Recipe
and inspiration

Rocoto Manzano Pepper is excellent in hot sauces, salsas, South American dishes, grilled foods, stews, and especially the traditional rocoto relleno. Its thick, fruity, slightly tangy flesh holds its texture well during cooking. Its moderate to moderately hot heat enhances recipes without overpowering their flavors. The fruits can also be pickled, frozen, or fermented into flavorful sauces.

Frequently asked questions

When should I sow Rocoto Manzano Pepper in Canada? +

Start seeds approximately 10 to 12 weeks before the last expected frost, usually in early March. Temperatures between 20 and 25°C (68 to 77°F) promote reliable germination. Wait until all danger of frost has passed before planting outdoors.

Why does Rocoto Manzano have black seeds? +

Black seeds are a natural characteristic of Capsicum pubescens. They make this species easy to distinguish from other cultivated peppers and do not affect the flavor or quality of the fruits.

Does Rocoto Manzano tolerate cool weather better? +

Yes. This species tolerates cooler temperatures better than most other peppers. However, it is still sensitive to frost and should be protected before freezing temperatures arrive.

Can the plant be kept from one year to the next? +

Yes. If brought indoors before frost and kept in a bright, frost-free location, Rocoto Manzano can behave as a perennial. Light pruning helps the plant overwinter successfully.

When should I harvest the fruits? +

Harvest fruits once they become uniformly bright red and fully developed. Frequent harvesting encourages continuous production until the first cold weather.

The availability of our seeds varies depending on seasonal availability, production schedules and supplier inventory. Certain varieties may only be offered for a limited time based on their natural growth cycle, sowing period or available stock. These product pages are designed to help and inspire gardeners in choosing the right seeds for vegetable gardens, flower beds, pollinator gardens, container growing, naturalization projects and sustainable outdoor spaces.