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South Texas Chile Pequin | $3.00 | |
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Capsicum annuum var. aviculare
The wild relative of cultivated chiles, chiltepines are native to North America and can still be found growing in canyons in southern Arizona and northern Mexico. Chiltepines are attractive perennial landscape plants for shady to filtered light areas in the low desert. They will freeze back in the winter. The pea-sized fruits are very hot. Approx. 25 seeds/packet.
Chiltepines can be grown in containers and protected through the winter months. Start seeds inside 8-10 weeks before last frost. Seeds are slow to germinate and need warmth. Sow 1/4 inch deep in sandy soil. Transplant seedlings 12-16 inches apart.
Protect mature fruit from birds - mockingbirds love chiltepines! The insect-visited flowers can self-pollinate or cross. Grow only one variety at a time, or isolate flowers by covering branches with cloth bags tied loosely at the bottom, or cover plants with cages made from window screen over a frame. Allow fruit to ripen and mature on the plant. Chiltepines turn red when mature. For best seed results, fruit should be shriveled and almost dry. Wear gloves, and take care not to touch your eyes when removing seeds from chiltepines.