Aji Guaguao
Also known as Aji Guaguao Cubano
Aji Guaguao is a rare wild Capsicum frutescens variety native to the Sierra Maestra mountains of southeastern Cuba. It produces high yields of small Tabasco-like pods that ripen from green to orange to red with very good flavor and hot heat. The deciduous fruits detach easily when ripe, making them ideal for sauces and dried seasonings.
About 3.2 times a Capsi Jalapeño (25,086 SHU typical).
Growing
~110 days to maturity
Fruit size
3–4 cm
Flavor & Use
Very good flavor that enhances many dishes; excellent when fresh or dried into powder.
Culinary
About
Aji Guaguao, also known as Aji Guaguao Cubano, is a wild-growing Capsicum frutescens cultivar originating from the rugged Sierra Maestra mountain range in southeastern Cuba. The plants grow to about 1 to 1.2 meters tall, forming productive bushy specimens that can reach 4 feet or more in height. The small conical pods, approximately 1.5 inches long, ripen from green through orange to a vibrant red. When fully mature the fruits soften and fall easily from the calyx. With Scoville ratings between 50,000 and 80,000 SHU, the pepper delivers hot heat paired with an excellent versatile flavor. It is highly productive and well-suited for culinary use in soups, stews, sauces, rice dishes, and as a dried powder for seasonings. The variety performs best in warm climates where it can persist as a perennial in USDA zones 9b through 11.
Backstory
This wild variety hails from the Sierra Maestra mountain range in southeastern Cuba, a rugged region with historical significance in guerrilla warfare. It is prized by enthusiasts for its high productivity and versatile flavor.
Appearance
Growing
Heritage
ExploreAji Guaguao is a traditional landrace.
Sources
FAQ
- How hot is Aji Guaguao?
- Capsi’s sourced range is 50,000–80,000 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 Guaguao taste like?
- Very good flavor that enhances many dishes; excellent when fresh or dried into powder.
- How do I grow Aji Guaguao?
- Aji Guaguao: about 110 days to maturity, subtropical climate, full sun, hardiness zones 9b-11.
- What can I substitute for Aji Guaguao?
- Tabasco