Aji Delight

Aji Delight is a heatless Peruvian Capsicum baccatum pepper prized for its sweet, fruity flavor and prolific yields of red bullet-shaped pods. It delivers classic aji taste without any spiciness, ideal for fresh eating and cooking.

Growing

~90 days to maturity

Fruit size

7–10 cm

Flavor & Use

Sweet with fruity notes reminiscent of apple, juicy and flavorful without any heat.

sweetfruityapple

Culinary

saladsstuffed peppersstir-friesfresh eatingpowder

About

Aji Delight is a unique cultivar of Capsicum baccatum originating from Peru. Unlike most baccatum peppers which carry moderate heat, this variety has been selected for its complete lack of pungency while retaining the species' signature sweet and fruity notes with hints of apple. The plants are vigorous and bushy, reaching heights of around 4 feet, and produce abundant harvests of 3 to 4 inch long tapered or bullet-shaped fruits that ripen from green to a vibrant red. The pods have thick, firm walls, juicy flesh, and a small core, with a crunchy texture that holds up well when cooked. These peppers are perfect for fresh use in salads, as a stuffing vegetable, or in stir-fries where they add flavor without heat. They can also be dehydrated and ground into a mild, aromatic powder. Growing Aji Delight is straightforward in full sun with well-drained soil, and the plants are known for their productivity even in cooler climates.

Backstory

Aji Delight is a relatively new selection within the Capsicum baccatum species, notable for its rare heatless mutation while preserving the species' characteristic sweet and fruity profile. It was developed to offer a mild alternative to traditional hot ajis from Peru.

Appearance

ShapeBullet-shaped or tapered
ColorGreen · Red
Size7–10 cm
WallThick
SkinSmooth

Growing

SunFull
WaterModerate
ClimateSubtropical
Days to maturity90 days
Plant height50–120 cm
Soil pH6–7
Germination7–21 days
Spacing45 cm
HardinessZones 9-11

Heritage

Nothing reputable documents a pedigree for this pepper.

Sources