Organic 'Aurora' hot pepper

Organic 'Aurora' hot pepper (Capsicum annuum) from the seed company Gaia, a compact pepper with changing colours and a vibrant spiciness

The 'Aurora' chili pepper is as much an ornamental marvel as it is a culinary delight. Its compact size, reaching about 30 cm in height, makes it ideal for pots, window boxes, and small gardens. It produces an abundance of small, upright fruits , 1 to 1.5 inches long , that go through a spectacular spectrum of colors : lavender, deep purple , orange, and then bright red when ripe. With a heat level of 30,000 to 50,000 SHU , it rivals some traditional hot peppers, offering a bright, clear fire beneath its decorative appearance. Although often grown for its beauty, it remains entirely edible and adds a vibrant note to salsas, marinades, and pickles.

A chili pepper that proves you can be small, pretty… and burning hot all at the same time.

Companion plants : Alliums, Basil, Tomato, Spinach, Oregano, Marjoram, Nasturtium, Marigold
Nefarious plants : Broad beans, Brassicaceae, Fennel

Spread/carry : Compact and bushy
Plant height : 30 cm
Quantity per packet : 20 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Spectrum of colours (lavender → violet → orange → red), very intense (30,000–50,000 SHU), ideal for pots, extremely ornamental

Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Lively, tangy, aromatic
Cold tolerance : Not hardy

Farming method

Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before planting time, about 6 mm deep in warm potting mix. Maintain a temperature of 27–31°C for optimal germination in 7–21 days. Harden off seedlings to 18–19°C before transplanting. Provide full sun (level 3) and moderate watering (level 2). Space plants 30–45 cm apart, with 60–75 cm between rows, or grow in pots of at least 3 liters.

Harvesting and preservation

Harvest the fruits when they have reached their final color , depending on the intended use. Frequent harvesting encourages continuous production . Store the peppers at 10-12°C with 95% relative humidity.

Usage ideas

• As colorful pickles , perfect for highlighting their chromatic gradient
• In salsas, where their bright spiciness really shines through
• Fried or stir-fried for a vibrant touch in Asian dishes
• In powder or flake form once dried
• As a decorative chili pepper… but perfectly edible

The 'Aurora' chili pepper brightens both the garden and the kitchen with its fiery interior and luminous gradient of color. A compact, attractive, and intensely spicy variety, perfect for adding a touch of spice to flowerbeds and plates alike.