Quintisho Red Pepper Seeds – Rare Bolivian Wild Cherry Type (Capsicum chinense)

Quintisho is a rare Capsicum chinense from Bolivia that resembles a wild cherry tomato in shape but packs a genuinely surprising punch. Compact plants produce an incredible abundance of small ¾-inch round pods that ripen from dark green through orange to vivid red. The fragrance is distinctly citrusy and aromatic, with a fruity heat that builds to 5,000–30,000 SHU. Extremely branched growth means one plant can set dozens of fruits per branch — one of the most productive small-fruited peppers you can grow.

Variety Details

• Species: Capsicum chinense
• Origin: Bolivia
• Pod Size: ~¾ inch round; wild cherry tomato appearance
• Color Progression: Dark green → Orange → Red
• Flavor: Aromatic, citrusy, fruity
• Heat Level: 5,000–30,000 SHU
• Plant Height: 70–110 cm; highly branched, extremely productive
• Best Use: Fresh eating, salsas, pickling, ornamental

Starting Seeds

• Sow ¼ inch deep in organic seed-starting mix (peat, perlite, vermiculite blend)
• Germination temperature: 77–86°F — heat mat required
• Soak seeds in water (with optional 0.3% hydrogen peroxide) for 24 hours before sowing
• Keep consistently moist but not wet; good air circulation prevents mold
• Germination time: 1–4 weeks; place under grow lights once sprouted
• After second true leaves develop, transplant to individual pots
• Transplant outdoors after last frost when soil is consistently warm

Growing Tips

• Full sun; fertile, well-drained soil
• Feed with potassium-enriched fertilizer after first transplant for strong roots and compact growth
• Grows well in 5-gallon containers year-round
• Harden off over 7–14 days before outdoor placement

Harvest

Harvest when pods reach full red for peak flavor. Eat fresh, add to salads and salsas, or pickle. Pick regularly — extremely prolific; continuous harvest extends the season.