Organic 'Long Cayenne' Hot Pepper
identification
description
Organic 'Cayenne Long' hot pepper (Capsicum annuum) from McKenzie seed company, a classic, fiery variety ideal for sauces and dried peppers
The 'Cayenne Long' chili pepper is an iconic variety renowned for its intense heat , slender shape , and great culinary versatility. The fruits typically measure 13 to 15 cm , are thin and smooth, and can be harvested green or red , with the latter developing maximum aromatic intensity and spiciness when fully ripe.
Highly prized for making hot sauces , salsas , and dried chili powders and flakes , the Long Cayenne offers a well-balanced heat, ranging from 30,000 to 50,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU) . This variety is ideal for gardeners looking to grow a reliable, productive, and easy-to-use hot pepper for home cooking.
The plants, compact and well-branched, adapt well to both open ground and container cultivation, provided they receive warmth, sun, and a sheltered location. The flowers attract pollinators , contributing to the biodiversity of the vegetable garden.
Companion plants: Basil, Onion, Oregano
Plant enemies: None notable
Spread/Habit: Bushy, compact
Plant height: Approximately 45 to 60 cm
Seed producer: McKenzie
Seed type: Open pollination
Physical type of seed: Seeds
Quantity per packet: Approximately 25 to 30 seeds
Special features: Long, slender fruits, excellent variety for drying, suitable for growing in pots
Fruit color: Green, then bright red when ripe
Hotness level: 30,000 – 50,000 SHU
Tolerance: Excellent heat tolerance, sensitive to frost
Farming method
Start the seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost , in a light, well-draining potting mix. Sow at a depth of 6 mm and maintain consistent moisture until germination, which usually occurs in 7 to 14 days .
Once the seedlings are well established, gradually harden them off , then transplant them outdoors once the soil temperature reaches at least 18°C . Choose a location in full sun (level 3) , warm and sheltered from the wind. Space the plants 45 cm apart, with rows spaced approximately 60 cm apart.
Regular watering, equivalent to 2.5 to 5 cm of water per week , is recommended, but avoid overwatering. As the branches can become brittle under the weight of the fruit, light staking is advised.
Harvesting and maintenance
Harvesting begins approximately 75 days after transplanting . The fruits can be picked green for a more vegetal flavor or left to fully ripen to obtain red peppers, which are hotter and more aromatic . Regular harvesting encourages continuous production throughout the season.
Usage ideas
• Homemade hot sauces
• Salsas and spicy dishes
• Drying and manufacturing of chili powder
• Chili flakes
• International cuisine and spicy dishes
The organic 'Cayenne Long' chili pepper from McKenzie Seeds is a sure bet for lovers of spicy flavors. Productive, decorative, and intensely flavorful, it thrives in both the vegetable garden and the kitchen, offering controlled heat and an authentic character with every harvest.
