Hot Portugal Pepper Seeds – Heirloom Organic (Capsicum annuum)

Hot Portugal Pepper – Heirloom, Organically Grown

Capsicum annuum | Annual | 85 Days to Maturity | USDA NSL 6034

One of the finest hot peppers for all-around kitchen use, the Hot Portugal is a prolific heirloom variety from Portugal that has become a beloved staple in serious chili gardens across the US. Long, slender 6-inch fruits with thin flesh ripen quickly from green to a gorgeous, glossy scarlet red — even in shorter northern growing seasons. The flavor is a compelling sweet-meets-spicy profile that shines sautéed in soups, stews, and stir-fries. Dried and crushed, Hot Portugal produces some of the finest, most aromatic red chile flakes you’ll ever use. Organically grown without pesticides from gardener-saved seed, year after year.

Plant Details

• Species: Capsicum annuum
• Type: Heirloom Hot Pepper – Portuguese variety
• USDA Accession: NSL 6034
• Days to Maturity: 85 days from transplant
• Fruit Size: ~6 inches long × ¾ inch wide; slender, thin flesh
• Color Progression: Green → Glossy Scarlet Red
• Heat Level: Hot
• Plant Height: 18–24 inches
• Spacing: 12–18 inches apart; rows 3 feet apart
• Organic: Yes – grown without pesticides, gardener-saved seed

Safe Handling

Wear gloves when handling seeds and fruits. Wash hands thoroughly even after removing gloves. Avoid touching eyes or sensitive areas.

Soil & Water

Plant in fertile, well-drained soil enriched with compost; target pH 6.0–6.8. Water deeply — 1 inch per week. Mulch 1–2 inches around the base for moisture retention and temperature regulation. Add compost tea every 2–3 weeks for the first 6 weeks after transplant.

Planting & Growing Tips

• Start seeds indoors 8 weeks before the last expected frost; sow ¼ inch deep in organic seed-starting mix.
• Maintain 80–85°F (27–29°C) soil temperature; a seedling heat mat is recommended. Germination: 1–4 weeks.
• Transplant outdoors after all frost danger has passed; space 12–18 inches apart.
• Container growing: thrives in 3-gallon or larger pots; excellent as an indoor houseplant.
• Great as a backdrop for annuals or used as a border in garden areas.

Harvest & Culinary Tips

• Best when allowed to ripen fully red on the plant for maximum sweetness and heat.
• Sauté fresh in soups, stews, and stir-fries; an excellent all-purpose hot pepper.
• Dry and crush for homemade red chile flakes — exceptional aroma and flavor.
• Use garden scissors to cut cleanly from stems; pick regularly to encourage continued production.
• Save seeds: allow to fully ripen, dry for 2 weeks, store in a cool dry place for up to 2 years.