Bishy Barnabees Cottage Garden
Lemon Drop Chilli
- Regular price
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£1.99 - Regular price
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- Sale price
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£1.99
The Aji Lemon Drop, also widely known as 'Lemon Drop', is a cherished cultivar of Capsicum baccatum, a distinct chilli species known for its typically fruity, aromatic flavours and often bright colours. Its origins trace back to Peru, where it has been cultivated for centuries and is deeply integrated into traditional Andean and coastal Peruvian cuisine. The term "Aji" is commonly used in South America to refer to peppers of this species. Its unique flavour profile and striking appearance have led to its growing popularity worldwide.
| Quantity of Seeds | 10 seeds per packet |
| Origin | Peru |
| Genus | Capsicum baccatum |
| Scoville Rating/Heat Level | The Aji Lemon Drop offers a zesty and noticeable heat that is both exciting and manageable for most palates. It typically registers between 15,000 to 30,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). This places it in the medium-hot category, comparable to a strong serrano or a mild cayenne pepper. The heat is quick and sharp, providing a lively warmth that invigorates dishes without overpowering their underlying flavours. It's perfect for adding a bright, piquant kick. |
| Plant Size | The Aji Lemon Drop plant is a vigorous and highly productive grower, often reaching a height of 60-90 cm (24-36 inches), and sometimes taller under ideal conditions. It develops a sturdy, bushy habit with abundant foliage and is renowned for its prolific fruit set, often bearing dozens of pods. |
| Pod Size | The pods themselves are beautiful: slender and conical, typically measuring 5-8 cm (2-3 inches) in length and about 1-1.5 cm (0.4-0.6 inches) in diameter. They ripen from a light green to a brilliant, glossy lemon-yellow when fully mature, truly living up to their name and making them visually stunning on the plant. |
| Flavour |
This is where the Aji Lemon Drop truly stands out! Beyond its satisfying heat, it boasts an incredibly unique and intensely aromatic flavour profile, characteristic of premium Capsicum baccatum varieties. It delivers a pronounced bright, fresh citrus taste, specifically reminiscent of lemon zest, combined with a fruity sweetness and a subtle tanginess. There's a clean, almost tropical finish that makes it incredibly refreshing. This distinct flavour makes it outstanding for fish and seafood dishes, salsas, ceviches, chicken marinades, and fruit-based hot sauces. It's also excellent for infusing oils or vinegars, or simply slicing fresh into salads and stir-fries to add a burst of sunny, zesty heat. |
| Growing Conditions |
Use a light, well-draining seed-starting mix. Sow seeds ¼ inch (0.6 cm) deep. Sow seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost date. Optimal soil temperature: 26–32°C (80–90°F); using a heat mat is strongly recommended for Capsicum chinense varieties. Maintain high humidity by covering trays with a plastic dome or plastic wrap. Provide 12–16 hours of light per day, ideally with grow lights. Transplant seedlings outdoors when they have 4–6 true leaves and nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 15°C (59°F). Harden plants off for 7–10 days before moving them outside. Space plants 50–60 cm (20–24 inches) apart in rows 70–90 cm (28–36 inches) apart. Feed every 3–4 weeks with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) or switch to a high-potassium fertilizer once plants begin to flower and set fruit. |
All plants are grown on our farm in Norfolk, UK and are grown in an open pollinated area.
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