Rocoto Red Pepper
Easy to Grow
Non-GMO & Natural
High Germination Rate
Loved by Chefs
The Rocoto Red Pepper (Capsicum pubescens) is a unique chili from the Andes region of South America, prized for its fruitiness, thick walls, and substantial heat. It is one of the oldest domesticated chili peppers, cultivated by the Incas over 5,000 years ago, and is a staple in Peruvian and Bolivian cuisine.
- Flavor: Sweet, juicy, and fruity, with citrus and sometimes grassy undertones. The flavor is often described as a vibrant, apple-like sweetness combined with a spicy kick.
- Heat: Moderate to hot, typically ranging from 30,000 to 100,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). The heat often has a slow, lingering burn.
- Origin: Native to the Andean highlands of Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador, where it is known by various names, including locoto and manzano.
- Appearance: This pepper has a thick, juicy flesh similar to a bell pepper and black seeds, a unique characteristic of the Capsicum pubescens species. The pods are apple- or pear-shaped and ripen to a vibrant red.
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Culinary Uses:
- Stuffing: The thick walls and large cavity make it ideal for stuffing with meat, cheese, and spices, as in the classic Peruvian dish Rocoto Relleno.
- Fresh: Its unique fruity flavor makes it a fantastic addition to salsas, especially in ceviche.
- Sauces and pastes: The pepper's juiciness makes it excellent for creating hot sauces or grinding into a fiery paste.
- Roasting: Because it retains its moisture, the rocoto is well-suited for roasting or baking.
Rocoto Red Pepper
Seeds You Can Trust
Harvests You’ll Love
Every seed in our collection is chosen for its exceptional growth, natural integrity, and time-honored heritage. Whether you’re planting for a vibrant garden or a bountiful harvest, our varieties deliver both flavor and reliability. With high germination rates and non-GMO assurance, you can grow with confidence — season after season.
Fresh from Our Fields
Premium Heirloom Seeds
Our culinary seeds are hand-selected for chefs, growers, and home gardeners who demand flavor, reliability, and freshness. Sourced from trusted growers, stored in optimal conditions, and packaged for peak viability — every packet is a promise of taste and performance. Start cooking with ingredients you’ve grown yourself, and taste the difference from seed to plate.
Frequent Asked Questions
Q: Are your seeds suitable for home gardeners and professional chefs?
Absolutely! Our seeds are chosen for exceptional flavor, vibrant growth, and reliable yields—perfect for home gardens, restaurant kitchens, and culinary professionals alike.
Q: What does “heritage” or “heirloom” mean for your seeds?
Heritage and heirloom seeds are traditional varieties passed down through generations, valued for their flavor, history, and ability to be saved and replanted.
Q: How high is the germination rate of your seeds?
Our seeds are tested for high germination rates, ensuring strong, healthy plants when grown under proper conditions.
Q: Do you offer rare or specialty varieties?
Yes—we pride ourselves on offering unique, flavorful, and hard-to-find varieties that bring diversity and richness to your culinary creations.
