How to Grow Aji Largo Rocoto from Seed
A mountain chilli unlike any other: downy leaves, jet-black seeds, and thick, juicy, apple-crisp pods. The most cold-tolerant chilli there is.
Aji Largo is a rocoto, and quite unlike any other chilli you will grow. Capsicum pubescens is its own branch of the family, from the cool high Andes, and it carries two signatures you cannot mistake: soft downy leaves and jet-black seeds. Grow one and you will recognise the species for the rest of your life.
Because it evolved in mountain air it is the most cold-tolerant chilli there is, and a plant brought in before the first frost will often go a second and a third year. It is a long-season variety and needs starting early, or you will run out of summer before the pods colour.
Species
Capsicum pubescens
Heat
30,000 to 100,000 SHU
Sow
December to February
Harvest
August to October
Habit
Perennial, overwinters
Difficulty
Full growing method
Rocotos grow differently from other chillies: they prefer cooler conditions, dislike hot greenhouses and need a long season. Our Capsicum pubescens guide covers sowing, growing on, overwintering and problems step by step.
Read the rocoto chilli guide →About this Variety
The fruit
Conical, wrinkled pods about 7cm, ripening glossy deep red, with thick, unusually juicy flesh.
The flavour
A full fruity flavour ahead of the heat. Said to be the hottest of the rocotos.
In the kitchen
Use fresh, as it will not dry well. The classic pepper for rocoto relleno, stuffed and baked.
Spot the species
Downy, furry leaves, purple flowers and black seeds mark a true pubescens.
Handling
Wear gloves when cutting or deseeding, and keep your hands away from your eyes and face. The juicy flesh spreads capsaicin easily.
Sowing & Harvest Calendar
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🌱 Sow, heated | ||||||||||||
| 🪴 Final pots | ||||||||||||
| 🌶️ Harvest |
Variety Specifications
A chilli from the high Andes
Sow in winter, grow it cool, bring it in before the frost, and harvest juicy rocotos for years.
Shop Aji Largo Rocoto Seeds →