Hot pepper 'Aji Lemon Drop' (Capsicum baccatum) – Submitted by Les Gardiens - Ferme Alternative
Native to the Andes, the Aji Lemon Drop, also called Aji Limon, is an emblematic pepper of Peru and Bolivia. With its bright yellow color and unique flavor reminiscent of lemon, it brings a tangy and slightly sweet touch to dishes. Very productive and easy to grow, it is prized by chili lovers for its intense heat and refreshing taste. It pairs perfectly with sauces, marinades and fish or poultry dishes. Its spiciness ranges between 30,000 and 50,000 Scoville, offering a nice intensity without masking its citrus flavor.
Plant height: 1.5 to 2 m (4.9 to 6.6 ft)
Spread: Medium to wide
Quantity per packet: 15 to 20 seeds
Scoville (SHU): 30,000 to 50,000
Companion plants: Tomatoes, basil, coriander
Enemy plants: Fennel, beets
Cultivation method:
- Indoor sowing: Sow seeds 8-10 weeks before the last frost , at a temperature of 25-30°C . Germination takes 10-20 days .
- Transplanting: When the plants have 4 to 6 true leaves , transplant them into larger pots before acclimating them to the outdoors.
- Planting in open ground: After the risk of frost, space the plants 50 to 60 cm apart, in rich, well-drained soil.
- Maintenance: Water regularly without excess, add compost and mulch to retain moisture.
- Harvest: About 100 to 120 days after sowing, harvest the fruits when they turn their beautiful lemon yellow color.
Use and special features!
Cultivated since the time of the Incas, Aji Lemon Drop is prized as much for its refreshing taste as for its traditional medicinal properties. It is perfect in hot sauces, salsas and marinades, where its citrus flavor enhances fish and poultry. Its high productivity and adaptation to temperate climates make it an ideal choice for any gardener who loves hot peppers!
