Aji Mango

Also known as Aji Mango Stumpy

The Aji Mango is a flavorful heirloom pepper from Peru belonging to the Capsicum baccatum species. It features sweet mango-like fruitiness with citrus notes and heat ranging from moderate to hot, growing on productive 3-4 foot plants.

Growing

~85 days to maturity

Fruit size

5–8 cm

Flavor & Use

Sweet mango with citrus notes and a fruity aroma, accompanied by a searing but approachable heat.

fruitysweetcitrusymango-liketropical

Culinary

salsashot saucesmarinadespicklingappetizers

About

Native to Peru, the Aji Mango pepper stands out among Aji varieties for its distinctive sweet and fruity profile that closely mimics the taste of ripe mango, complemented by bright citrus and tropical flavors. The pods are elongated, typically 2 to 3 inches long and 0.5 to 1 inch wide, starting green to yellow and maturing to a vibrant bright orange. Heat levels can vary between 30,000 and 150,000 Scoville Heat Units across different strains, providing a searing yet enjoyable burn that is hotter than many common peppers like the jalapeño. These peppers are highly productive, with bushy plants reaching 3 to 4 feet in height and yielding dozens to hundreds of fruits per plant in 80 to 90 days. They thrive in full sun and well-draining soil, making them suitable for both garden beds and containers. Culinary enthusiasts appreciate them in salsas, hot sauces, marinades, pickling, and even stuffed appetizers, where their sweetness balances the spice beautifully. As a rare heirloom, it adds both visual appeal with its bright color and unique flavor to any pepper collection.

Backstory

Originating in Peru, the Aji Mango is a traditional Andean pepper variety valued for its unique mango-like sweetness. It belongs to the Capsicum baccatum species, which is native to South America and known for diverse fruity flavors in their cultivars.

Appearance

ShapeElongated, tapered
ColorGreen · Yellow · Orange
Size5–8 cm
WallMedium
SkinSmooth

Growing

SunFull
WaterModerate
ClimateSubtropical
Days to maturity85 days
Plant height90–120 cm
Soil pH6–7
Germination10–14 days
Spacing40 cm
HardinessZones 9-11

Heritage

Nothing reputable documents a pedigree for this pepper.

Sources