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Fruiting vegetable
Solanaceae
Organic fruiting vegetable seeds
Organic 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper
Capsicum baccatum
Product code : BIOVO-0064
Organic 'Aji Cristal' is an open-pollinated Chilean Capsicum baccatum cultivar. Slender juicy crisp fruit changes from pale green through yellow and orange to pale red. Fruity citrus flavour accompanies heat that rises with maturity; several catalogues report approximately 30,000 Scoville units without guaranteeing every seed harvest. Start seed indoors with steady warmth, then transplant after frost into full sun. Fertile freely draining soil, even moisture, and branch support encourage harvest. Sources indicate approximately 70 to 90 days from transplanting. Pick green for crunch and more moderate heat, or mature fruit for fuller pungency and aroma. A large well-drained container can work when watering remains consistent. These hot pepper seeds produce the distinctive Aji Cristal pepper for several harvest stages.
- Quantity
- Approximately 25 organic seeds
- Exposure
- Sun
- Life cycle
- Annual in Canadian gardens; frost-tender perennial where frost-free
Discover the plant
Common name'Aji Cristal' hot pepper
FamilySolanaceae
GenusCapsicum
Speciesbaccatum
CultivarAji Cristal
TypeFruiting vegetable
Botanical nameCapsicum baccatum
Reproducible seedsYes
Organic 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper (Capsicum baccatum) is an open-pollinated Chilean cultivar producing abundant slender, smooth, crisp fruit. Peppers change from very pale green through yellow and orange to pale red at full maturity. Their bright fruity citrus flavour comes with clean heat that intensifies as colour develops. Several catalogues place pungency around 30,000 Scoville units, although perception and seed lots vary, so always taste cautiously. Green or partly coloured fruit is especially juicy and valued for salsa, while mature peppers suit sauces, marinades, and drying. This organic seed fits warm vegetable gardens and large containers. Its succession of colours makes harvest stage easy to compare throughout the season.
Start seed indoors eight to ten weeks before the last frost, approximately 5 or 6 mm deep. Keep starting mix warm and lightly moist without saturation, then provide intense light immediately after emergence. Pot on before roots become crowded and harden plants gradually. Transplant only after frost danger has passed, soil has warmed, and nights remain mild. Select full sun, fertile soil amended with mature compost, and reliable drainage. Water deeply when the surface begins to dry and mulch after soil warms. Capsicum baccatum can form a vigorous plant, so install a stake or cage before branches become loaded. Avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes foliage over flowers and fruit. Inspect leaf undersides regularly and remove genuinely diseased material.
Consulted sources indicate approximately 70 to 90 days from transplanting, depending on climate and harvest stage. Use this range as guidance rather than a indicates. Pick pale green or yellow for very crisp texture and more moderate heat, or leave fruit to become orange-red for fuller flavour and pungency. Cut stems with a clean tool. Wear gloves, avoid touching eyes, and taste a small cooked portion before seasoning a dish. Use 'Aji Cristal' fresh in pebre, salsa, and stir-fries, or process it into sauce, refrigerated marinade, or dried powder. Refrigerate cut fruit promptly and follow a tested method for any shelf-stable preserve. Label dried products clearly and keep them away from children.
Sowing guide
It all startswith a seed.
Sowing depth
5 to 6 mm (approximately 1/4 in)
Spacing / density
Space approximately 45 to 60 cm (18 to 24 in) apart
Germination temperature
Approximately 24 to 29 °C (75 to 85 °F)
Germination time
Approximately 10 to 14 days at 21–29°C; cooler media can extend emergence to about three weeks.
Sowing period
Indoors, 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost
Propagation
Seed
Growing method
Growing 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper from seed. Sow indoors eight to ten weeks before the last frost, 5 or 6 mm (1/4 in) deep in clean, lightly moist starting mix. For 'Aji Cristal' indoor sowing, follow the frost-relative timing above. Transplant only after frost risk has passed, the soil is warm, and nights are reliably mild. A pepper seedling needs strong light, gentle airflow, and an evenly moist root zone without standing water. Plan around the way 'Aji Cristal' grows: compact, upright, and branching. Keep access to the root zone for watering and inspection. Feed moderately after establishment; excessive nitrogen can postpone flowers and ripe fruit. At final planting, space the plant approximately 45 to 60 cm (18 to 24 in) apart; crowding extra plants reduces access. Water at soil level when the upper root zone begins drying, maintaining even moisture through fruit development. This pepper needs sun; nearby walls or taller crops should not compromise it. Choose full sun and warm, fertile, freely drained soil for the long ripening season. Leave enough access around the pepper plant to inspect and cleanly harvest slender smooth fruit with juicy crisp flesh. Label every seedling because fruit colour and heat cannot identify young pepper plants. After late-season rain or wind, confirm drainage and support while preserving healthy foliage needed to finish ripening. Pick the crop when colour and firmness show the desired stage. Wear suitable gloves, keep the hot harvest separate from mild peppers, and gather usable fruit before cold autumn weather damages it.
Soil and care
The right care,at the right time.
Soil pH
Approximately 6.0 to 6.8
Care level
Moderate
Watering
The elongated fruit of 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper develops most evenly when the plant receives steady moisture through flowering and fruit elongation. As 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper's slender smooth fruit with juicy crisp flesh develops on a plant with compact, upright, and branching growth, widen the wetted area with the expanding canopy and roots. 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper is listed at approximately 70 to 90 days after transplanting depending on harvest stage and growing conditions; treat that as a planning reference and monitor moisture while later flowers and fruit are still developing.
Soil type
Give 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper loose, deep soil so its vigorous roots can sustain repeated growth of elongated fruit. Give 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper's compact, upright, and branching growth enough uncompacted root area to carry slender smooth fruit with juicy crisp flesh. With 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper's harvest listed as approximately 70 to 90 days after transplanting depending on harvest stage and growing conditions, keep its soil open and workable through the full production period. Before planting 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper, incorporate mature compost and break compacted layers instead of creating a rich, wet pocket around the crown.
Fertilization
'Aji Cristal' needs steady nutrition, not lush nitrogen-driven growth. Let a soil test guide any corrective amendment. Once 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper buds, excessive nitrogen can delay fruiting. Split necessary feeding instead of using one strong dose. For this compact, upright, and branching pepper plant bearing slender smooth fruit, fruit development responds best once feeding becomes restrained. Review growth stage before scheduling the next feeding. Even moisture helps 'Aji Cristal' use available nutrients consistently. Correct drainage and moisture before increasing fertility. For 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper, its branches should remain sturdy as fruit begins filling.
Moisture
Consistent soil moisture without saturation; good air circulation around the foliage.
Seasonal care
Seasonal care for 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper. Use 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper’s stated sowing window as a frost-relative cue, not a universal date: indoors, 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost. Label the tray or row after sowing 5 to 6 mm deep; seed generally emerges in 10 to 14 days at approximately 24 to 29 °C (75 to 85 °F), and slower seeds should not be disturbed. After emergence, give 'Aji Cristal' seedlings bright light and gentle air movement; pot on before roots circle densely, without burying a weak stem in wet mix. Harden the plants gradually, then transplant only after frost risk has passed, the soil is warm, and nights remain consistently mild. Choose full sun and loose fertile soil, mixing in mature compost while preserving drainage around the crown. Judge irrigation by moisture below the surface, not by a weekly schedule, and keep late-day water off the foliage. 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper container guidance: at least 15 to 20 L, approximately 30 to 35 cm (12 to 14 in) in diameter. Set the pot where runoff can escape and light is adequate. During flowering, inspect 'Aji Cristal' foliage for pests, maintain airflow, and avoid excess nitrogen, which can favour leafy growth over flower set and fruit ripening. Follow the supplied harvest guidance—approximately 70 to 90 days from transplanting; harvest green, yellow, orange, or red according to use—while remembering that warmth and light still determine how quickly each fruit reaches its final stage. When 'Aji Cristal' fruit begins colouring, handle it with gloves until the actual heat is known and label green and fully ripe harvests separately. Before the first autumn frost, move portable pots under protection or collect sound developed fruit, then remove diseased debris from the growing area.
Container growing
A garden,within reach.
Recommended pot size
At least 15 to 20 L, approximately 30 to 35 cm (12 to 14 in) in diameter
Growing 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper in containers. For 'Aji Cristal', choose a container matching this guide: at least 15 to 20 L, approximately 30 to 35 cm (12 to 14 in) in diameter. Keep several drainage holes unobstructed. Feed at a modest labelled rate after watering. Excess nitrogen can delay flowering and ripening while encouraging leafy growth. Place 'Aji Cristal' in sun, while preserving drainage and airflow at root and leaf level. Water slowly when the upper mix begins drying, continue until surplus drains, and empty the saucer. Leave this pepper open to light, airflow, and watering at soil level. Its growth is compact, upright, and branching. Install a stake or cage at planting when support is needed, without later piercing the root ball. The plant produces the expected harvest form: slender smooth fruit with juicy crisp flesh. Protect the developing crop from soil splash and rough handling. Rotate the container when one side receives less light, but do not twist loaded stems against their support. Keep approximately 45 to 60 cm (18 to 24 in) apart around the crop, especially where neighbouring foliage could shade or trap moisture. Position supports so branches remain accessible without rubbing the pot rim, then inspect blossoms and fruit from more than one side. As nights cool, let the rate of mix drying guide watering, and inspect leaf undersides before sheltering the container. Pick ripe fruit regularly to reduce the load on stems. As frost approaches, bring usable fruit indoors and inspect any sheltered container plant before placing it near other plants.
Bloom and dimensions
Its place,in your garden.
Mature height
Approximately 120 cm (4 ft), according to the supplier
Flower color
White to greenish white
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Herbaceous
Growth rate
Fast
Growth habit
Compact, upright, and branching
Bloom period
'Aji Cristal' opens small flowers where leaves meet its stems. Keep the root zone evenly moist during bloom. For 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper, those self-fertile blossoms precede fruit development. Support stems before the developing harvest adds weight. Gentle air movement helps this compact, upright, and branching pepper plant bearing slender smooth fruit release pollen. Check moisture before blaming poor set on fertility. For 'Aji Cristal', its flowering branches may shed buds during environmental stress. Good light and airflow help reproductive growth continue. Secure 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper before fruit weighs down flowering branches.
Fruiting
Elongated fruit forms very pale green, then changes through yellow and orange to pale red. Harvest young peppers for very crisp texture and more moderate heat, or let them ripen for fuller aroma and pungency. A warm season, even moisture, and balanced fertility support harvest. Stake loaded branches and cut stems with a clean tool. Taste each batch cautiously because heat can vary with maturity and conditions.
Days to maturity
Approximately 70 to 90 days after transplanting depending on harvest stage and growing conditions
Harvest
Approximately 70 to 90 days from transplanting; harvest green, yellow, orange, or red according to use
Garden associations
In goodcompany.
Companion plants
Rotate 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper with crops outside the nightshade family; nearby herbs do not interrupt a soil-borne disease cycle. Basil, parsley, oregano, or chives can occupy nearby space around 'Aji Cristal' when they do not shade the pepper. Give the pepper plant enough sun and airflow as branches begin carrying fruit. Around 'Aji Cristal', remove any neighbour that begins competing for light, moisture, airflow, or harvest access. In the 'Aji Cristal' hot pepper planting, keep access open to the slender smooth fruit with juicy crisp flesh so gloves, labels, and clean harvest containers can be used without brushing other crops. Reassess the arrangement around 'Aji Cristal' as both crops approach mature size. Use companion planting to organize succession and diversity, not as a substitute for sound crop care.
Recipe idea
From the gardento your plate.
Edible parts
Fruit, after appropriate culinary preparation
'Aji Cristal' hot pepper in the kitchen. 'Aji Cristal' pebre — Wear gloves and wash one green or yellow pepper. Remove the stem, then finely chop a small portion; begin with half the fruit. Mix with two firm tomatoes cut into small dice, 60 mL (1/4 cup) chopped onion, 30 mL (2 tbsp) cilantro, 15 mL (1 tbsp) lime juice, and 15 mL (1 tbsp) oil. Season lightly with salt, refrigerate for fifteen minutes, and taste before adding more pepper. Serve with bread, grilled vegetables, or a bean dish. Keep the mixture refrigerated and discard it if spoilage appears. Wash hands, knife, and board carefully. This fresh recipe is not shelf-stable; use a tested method for any product intended for room-temperature storage. Label leftovers with the preparation date. To adjust heat without diluting texture, prepare the base first and add 'Aji Cristal' in small portions. Use a clean spoon for each tasting and clearly identify the condiment as hot. Keep it away from children.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions,answered.
When should 'Aji Cristal' pepper be sown in your region?
Sow 'Aji Cristal' indoors eight to ten weeks before the local last-frost date so this vigorous Capsicum baccatum has time to produce both crisp pale fruit and fully coloured peppers. Place seed 5 to 6 mm (about 1/4 in) deep in clean mix and hold the root zone near 24 to 29°C (75 to 85°F). Once seedlings emerge, provide strong light, space, and gentle airflow. Pot them on before roots crowd, then harden them gradually for roughly one week. Transplant only after frost danger has passed, the soil is warm, and nights remain mild. Install support early because plants can approach the supplier's approximately 120 cm (4 ft) height. In a short season, use the warmest sunny site available.
At what stage should 'Aji Cristal' be harvested?
The best stage depends on the intended use. Pale-green or yellow fruit is very juicy and crisp, with bright citrus flavour and generally more moderate heat. As peppers colour toward orange-red, they develop fuller aroma and usually greater pungency. Harvest early for pebre, fresh salsa, and stir-fries where texture matters, or wait for advanced colour for sauces and drying. Cut stems with a clean tool and wear gloves. Record colour and perceived strength because fruit and seed lots can vary. Before autumn cold, gather all remaining sound peppers. Refrigerate cut or damaged fruit promptly and discard any showing mould or decay.
How hot is 'Aji Cristal' pepper?
Several specialist catalogues report approximately 30,000 Scoville units, a definite level of heat that can exceed an ordinary jalapeño. This remains a cultivar estimate, not a guarantee for every pepper. Seed-harvest genetics, maturity, and growing conditions affect perception. Green fruit is often less powerful than fully mature orange-red peppers. Wear gloves, avoid touching eyes, and taste one tiny cooked piece before seasoning an entire dish. Warn sensitive diners and keep powders clearly labelled. If a mild sweet pepper is required, choose a confirmed non-pungent cultivar instead of relying on early harvest. Keep hot pepper preparations away from children and pets.
Can 'Aji Cristal' be grown in a container?
'Aji Cristal' can grow in a pot, but its reported height of about 120 cm makes stability and support especially important. Provide at least 15–20 L of root space in a container roughly 30–35 cm wide, with multiple open drainage holes. Use light vegetable mix and install a sturdy stake or narrow cage at planting rather than after roots fill the pot. Full sun and a warm, wind-sheltered position support the long 70–90-day post-transplant season. Water thoroughly when the upper mix begins to dry, and never allow the saucer to hold water. Tie branches loosely as the slender, juicy fruit develops. Feed moderately according to label directions and inspect moisture every day during hot weather. Harvest with scissors so pulling does not twist the tall plant or damage a loaded branch.
How long does harvest take?
Consulted sources list approximately 70 to 90 days from transplanting, depending on climate and chosen colour stage. A green or yellow pepper intended for pebre may be usable earlier than a fully mature orange-red fruit. Treat the range as guidance. Start seed indoors, transplant only after frost, and place plants in the warmest sunny location. Judge mainly by size, firmness, colour, and aroma. Record transplant date, first green harvest, and first mature fruit. These local observations will improve the next sowing schedule and help decide which peppers should be allowed to colour before cold nights. Harvest all sound usable fruit when autumn cooling becomes persistent.
Wildlife and pets
Life,around your plants.
Supporting wildlife
Aji Cristal has self-fertile flowers, so its green-to-red fruit does not depend on insect pollination. Bees can nevertheless visit, and their vibration may improve pollen release where plants grow outdoors. This contribution is secondary and lasts only while the pepper is flowering. Keep open blossoms free from treatments during visits and add richer forage plants nearby.
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