Ají Cereza Pepper Seeds – Rare Peruvian Cherry Pepper | 70,000–80,000 SHU (Capsicum annuum)

Ají Cereza — Spanish for “cherry pepper” — is a rare heirloom from the Peruvian jungle with a distinctive cherry-like shape that makes it immediately recognizable. Small, round pods grow upright on tall, sprawling plants and ripen from green to a deep, glossy red. Pungency is serious at 70,000–80,000 SHU, placing it well into super-hot territory. A prized find for rare pepper collectors and Peruvian cuisine enthusiasts.

Variety Details

• Species: Capsicum annuum
• Origin: Peruvian jungle
• Pod Shape: Small, round/cherry-shaped; upright
• Color Progression: Green → Deep red
• Heat Level: 70,000–80,000 SHU (very hot)
• Plant: Tall, sprawling; heavy producer
• Rarity: Very rare heirloom

Safety First

Always wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly after removing gloves. Never touch eyes or sensitive skin. Lime juice may help relieve skin burn.

Starting Seeds

• Sow ¼ inch deep indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost
• Germination temperature: 80–85°F — heat mat required
• Germination time: 1–4 weeks
• Use organic seed-starting mix; avoid jiffy peat pots or standard potting soil
• Transplant outdoors after last frost when soil is consistently warm

Growing Tips

• Full sun; fertile, well-drained soil
• Water 1 inch per week; mulch 1–2 inches around the base
• Add compost to planting hole; feed with compost tea during early growth
• Grows well in 5-gallon containers
• Harden off over 7–14 days before final outdoor placement

Harvest

Harvest with garden scissors when pods reach full deep red. Pick regularly to encourage continuous fruiting. Handle with care — very hot.