Xochiteco Hot Pepper
Capsicum annuum
Seeds per packet - 25
Germination: July 2024 99% (Packed for 2025)
Origins and History
The Xochiteco Hot Pepper is a traditional heirloom from Mexico, particularly tied to indigenous communities that have long cultivated peppers as central elements of cuisine, medicine, and ritual. Its name reflects its deep cultural roots, as “Xochiteco” connects to Nahuatl language traditions, linking the pepper to flower-rich regions and local foodways. Passed down through generations of farmers, it represents the diversity and resilience of Capsicum annuum varieties in Mesoamerica. This heirloom has maintained its strong cultural value as part of sauces, condiments, and preservation methods used for centuries.
Appearance and Characteristics
The Xochiteco produces slender, elongated peppers that typically grow 3–6 inches long with a slightly curved, tapered shape. When immature, they appear bright green, ripening through shades of orange and red. The skin is smooth and glossy, with a thin wall, which makes the pepper ideal for drying. Flavor-wise, the Xochiteco is pungent, with heat levels in the medium-to-hot range, offering a balance between fruity undertones and a sharp bite. Its growth habit is upright, with plants reaching 2–3 feet tall, producing high yields under the right conditions.
Culinary Uses
In Mexican kitchens, Xochiteco peppers are prized for their versatility. Fresh, they are chopped into salsas or added to soups and stews for warmth. When dried, they develop a smoky, concentrated flavor that is ideal for sauces, chili powders, and seasoning pastes. They can be roasted or smoked, and their vibrant color enhances both the appearance and depth of traditional dishes such as tamales, moles, and beans. Pickling is another common use, as the pepper’s size and heat make it suitable for preserving in vinegar brines.
Growing Tips
Xochiteco Hot Pepper thrives in warm climates and long growing seasons, aligning best with USDA Zones 9–11, though it can be grown as an annual in Zones 5–8 with early indoor starts. Sow seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost, planting at a depth of ¼ inch in light, well-drained seed-starting mix. Transplant outdoors after soil temperatures consistently reach 65–70°F. Plants prefer full sun and fertile, loamy soil with consistent moisture. Mulching can help conserve soil warmth and water. For gardeners in cooler zones, container growing is also successful with adequate sunlight and heat.
Harvesting Guidance
Harvesting begins when peppers reach full size and start to ripen in color, typically 75–90 days from transplanting. For milder heat, peppers can be picked while still green, but their flavor intensifies and develops complexity when fully red. Use clean pruners or scissors to snip peppers from the plant, leaving a small stem attached to reduce damage. For drying, harvest fully red peppers, string them into ristras, or use a dehydrator for long-term storage. Regular harvesting encourages continued fruit set, ensuring a generous yield throughout the growing season.
