Organic 'Cayenne' hot pepper
Organic 'Cayenne' hot pepper (Capsicum annuum) from the seed company Gaia, a classic long and thin pepper with intense heat and remarkable productivity
The 'Cayenne' pepper is one of the most iconic hot peppers, prized for its long, slender fruits up to 6 inches long, barely 1/2 inch at the shoulder. Bright emerald green when young, they ripen to a characteristic wrinkled, vibrant red . With a heat level of 30,000 to 50,000 SHU , it delivers a lively yet balanced heat, ideal for sauces, marinades, chili oils, drying, or homemade powders. The upright, bushy plants are highly productive, reaching about 60 cm in height and producing an abundance of uniform pods throughout the warm season. A reliable heirloom variety, it remains a staple in chili gardens.
Classic, powerful and versatile, the Cayenne retains its status as a star of spicy cuisines worldwide.
Companion plants : Alliums, Basil, Tomato, Spinach, Oregano, Marjoram, Nasturtium, Marigold
Nefarious plants : Broad beans, Brassicaceae, Fennel
Spread/Habit : Upright and bushy
Plant height : 60 cm
Quantity per packet : 20 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Fruits are 6 inches long, 1/2 inch thin at the shoulder, very productive, heat 30,000–50,000 SHU, bright red when ripe
Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Lively, tangy, aromatic
Cold tolerance : Not hardy
Farming method
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before planting out, at a depth of approximately 6 mm . Maintain a temperature between 27 and 31°C for optimal germination in 7 to 21 days. Harden off seedlings to 18–19°C , then transplant to full sun (level 3). Water moderately (level 2). Space plants 30 to 45 cm apart and rows 60 to 75 cm apart. Upright plants benefit from ample warmth to maximize yield.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the fruits reach their final bright red color . Frequent harvesting encourages continuous production . Store the chilies at 10-12°C with high humidity to maintain their firmness. They also dry very well, making it ideal for producing homemade cayenne flakes or powder.
Usage ideas
• Homemade cayenne powder after drying
• For chili oils and vinegars
• In marinades or hot sauces
• Sautéed or grilled for an immediate kick
• In preserves and fermented preparations
The 'Cayenne' pepper remains an undisputed classic: productive, fiery, and incredibly versatile. An essential variety for any hot pepper collection.
