
Details
15,000 - 30,000 SHU. This is an orange variant of Lemon drop Pepper (originally known as Aji Lima) a vibrant and historic seasoning pepper that hails from pre-Columbian Peru. Revered for its stunning appearance and versatile flavor, this pepper ripens to a brilliant orange. Its thin-walled, conical fruits measure 2-3 inches in length and have a waxy, citrus-like texture. The plants, which grow to about 2 feet tall, are incredibly vigorous, producing heavy yields of these striking peppers.
The Lemon Drop Pepper offers a clean, bright, and slightly citrusy heat in the cayenne range—spicy enough to make an impression without overwhelming the palate. This makes it a perfect choice for spicier salsas, citrus-based hot sauces, jellies, and pepper powders or flakes. It pairs beautifully with chicken, fish, and seafood dishes, adding a zesty tang that elevates any meal.
Introduced to the U.S. by William Woys Weaver through the Roughwood Seed Gardens, this pepper’s unique flavor and exceptional productivity make it a standout for home gardeners. Whether you're creating striking yellow hot sauces or experimenting with preserves, the Lemon Drop Pepper is a culinary gem and a visual delight for any garden or kitchen. Non-Isolated.
Michigan Seeds and Plants grown on our farm, Renegade Acres, in Howell, MI!
Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth.
Additional Info
Botanical Name | Capsicum baccatum |
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Life Cycle | Annual |
Min. Time to Germinate | 10 Days |
Max. Time to Germinate | 15 Days |
Depth to Sow Seeds | 1/4 in. |
When to Sow | Indoors 8-10 weeks before last spring frost |
Growing Height | 24-36 in. (60-90 cm) |
Plant Spacing | 18-24 in. (45-60 cm) |
Hardiness | N/A |
Sun Exposure | Full Sun |
Danger | N/A |
Soil pH Requirements | 5.6 to 6.0 (acidic), 6.1 to 6.5 (mildly acidic), 6.6 to 7.5 (neutral) |
Days to Harvest | 90-100 |
Propagation Methods | From seed; sow indoors before last frost |
Seed Collecting | Allow unblemished fruit to ripen; clean and dry seeds |
Heat (Scoville Heat Units) | 10,000-24,999 SHU, 25,000-49,999 SHU |
Pepper Color | Green changing to orange |
Pepper Shape | Flat, Tapered |
Pepper Size | Small (under 2in. in length) |
Pepper Usage | Drying, Fresh (salsa, salads), Pickling |
Seeds Per Pack | 25 |