Datil Hot Pepper Seeds – Very Hot, Sweet & Fruity (Capsicum chinense)

Datil Hot Pepper – Very Hot, Sweet & Fruity

Capsicum chinense | Annual | Estimated Germination: 2–10 Weeks

Famous in the coastal town of St. Augustine, Florida, the Datil is one of America’s most beloved regional superhot peppers — and one of the most uniquely flavored. Similar in heat to the Habanero (100,000–300,000 SHU), the Datil delivers a sweeter, fruitier, and more complex flavor that makes it exceptional for hot sauces, marinades, jellies, and Caribbean-inspired cooking. A rare heirloom variety with deep cultural roots and extraordinary culinary versatility.

Plant Details

• Species: Capsicum chinense
• Type: Regional American Superhot – Heirloom
• Heat Level: Very Hot – 100,000–300,000 SHU
• Flavor Profile: Sweet, fruity, complex — sweeter than Habanero
• Growing Environment: Garden, greenhouse, or containers

Safe Handling

Always wear gloves when handling seeds and fruits. Wash hands thoroughly even after removing gloves. Avoid touching eyes or sensitive areas. Optionally, dip seeds in a dilute hydrogen peroxide solution (1 tsp per cup water) for 1 minute before sowing to reduce mold risk.

Soil & Water

Plant in moist, well-drained potting soil with good organic content; target pH 6.0–6.8. Maintain even soil moisture — water when the surface just begins to dry. Ensure adequate air circulation to prevent damping-off. Target 75–90°F (24–32°C) for germination.

Planting & Growing Tips

• Start seeds in small containers 8–10 weeks before the last frost; sow ¼–½ inch deep in moist, well-drained soil.
• Keep soil temperature at 75–90°F (24–32°C) at all times — cool nighttime temps significantly delay germination. Use a seedling heat mat. Estimated germination: 2–10 weeks.
• Once seedlings develop a few sets of leaves, transplant to larger containers or outdoors (after hardening off with filtered sunlight for 1–2 weeks).
• Thin plants to 3–4 feet apart; rows 6–10 feet apart for field growing.
• Container growing: 5-gallon or larger pots recommended.

Harvest Tips

• Harvest at full color maturity for peak sweetness and heat. Always wear gloves.
• Use garden scissors to cut cleanly from stems; pick regularly to encourage continued production.
• Exceptional for Datil pepper sauce (a St. Augustine tradition), hot sauce, pepper jelly, and marinades.