Aji Chuncho

Crisp texture with a delightful capsicum flavor and a hint of sweetness that lingers on the tongue.

The Aji Chuncho pepper originates from Peru and belongs to the Capsicum frutescens species. It produces small, bright red pods with a crisp texture that deliver a delightful capsicum taste accompanied by a hint of sweetness which lingers on the tongue for an extended period. The heat level is upper mid-range at 30,000 to 50,000 Scoville Heat Units, providing a noticeable burn throughout the mouth that is strong yet not overwhelming. The plant grows tall and bushy, resembling a small tree with small leaves, typically reaching about one meter in height when grown in pots and significantly larger when planted in the ground. The pods are approximately 4-5 cm long and 1 cm wide, growing erect and maturing from green to bright red. Named after the Chuncho indigenous people of the Peruvian Amazon who have traditionally incorporated it into their spicy foods, this variety is highly productive and straightforward to cultivate. It excels in the kitchen as a versatile chili, featured prominently in traditional Peruvian ceviche as well as in Asian-inspired sauces, stir-fries, and pickled preparations.

The name derives from the Chuncho indigenous people of the Peruvian Amazon, who have traditionally used this pepper to add spice to their meals.

How hot is Aji Chuncho?

Capsi’s sourced range is 30,000–50,000 SHU (Vendor Claim). Capsi uses a sourced range and a trust tier, not a single marketing number. How we verify heat: https://web.thecapsi.app/learn/heat-and-capsaicin/how-we-measure-heat

What does Aji Chuncho taste like?

Crisp texture with a delightful capsicum flavor and a hint of sweetness that lingers on the tongue.

How do I grow Aji Chuncho?

Aji Chuncho: tropical climate, full sun, hardiness zones 9-11.

What can I substitute for Aji Chuncho?

Capsi does not have that recorded yet.