Chile Pequin / Chiltepin

The "mother of all chiles," the Chile Pequin is the official pepper of the State of Texas. It was first domesticated about 6000 years ago in Central Mexico, where it is called Chiltepin ("flea chili" in Nahuatl) for the small size of its fruits, about the size of a peppercorn. Used for 500+ years to make spicy salsas, the small fruits are also eaten by birds who spread the seeds. Highly drought tolerant, with white flowers from June to September, it sets little red fruits in late fall. Jalapenos, Serranos, and Bell peppers all trace their ancestry to the Chiltepin. In shade, it grows taller and more upright, seeking the light. In full sun, it has a more rounded growth habit. After fall frost, trim it back and new growth emerges from the roots. Learn more at the Native Plant Society and Nativo Gardens.

Plant Size: 4" Pot or Gallon
Scientific Name: Capsicum annuum
Height: 1-2 feet
Spread: 1-2 feet
Light: Full Sun, Morning Sun, Afternoon Sun, Shade