Fresno
Also known as Fresno Chile · Fresno Pepper · Fresno Chili · Red Fresno Chile · Red Jalapeño (informal)
The Fresno pepper is a bright, medium-hot California chili known for its smooth skin, juicy flesh, and vibrant red color when ripe. It is slightly hotter and fruitier than a jalapeño and is a favorite for fresh salsas, pickling, and topping dishes.
Growing
~75 days to maturity
Fruit size
5–10 cm
Flavor & Use
Bright and fruity with a crisp, juicy bite and clean heat. More vibrant and slightly sweeter than a typical jalapeño, especially when fully red and ripe.
Culinary
About
Fresno peppers are 2–4 inches long, conical, and slightly curved with smooth, glossy skin. They start dark green and ripen to a brilliant bright red. Thinner walls than a jalapeño yet very juicy and crisp.
Backstory
Developed in 1952 by Clarence “Brownie” Hamlin on his farm in Clovis (Fresno County), California. Bred as a brighter, juicier, fruitier alternative to the jalapeño perfectly suited to local conditions. Quickly became a California farmers’ market and Mexican-American cuisine staple for its striking red color and balanced heat.
Appearance
Growing
Heritage
ExploreWe don't have a documented family for this pepper yet.
Sources
FAQ
- How hot is Fresno?
- Capsi’s sourced range is 25,500 SHU (Lab-verified; typical 25,500). 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 Fresno taste like?
- Bright and fruity with a crisp, juicy bite and clean heat. More vibrant and slightly sweeter than a typical jalapeño, especially when fully red and ripe.
- How do I grow Fresno?
- Fresno: about 75 days to maturity, warm climate, full sun, hardiness zones 9-11.
- What can I substitute for Fresno?
- jalapeño (milder, near-identical appearance), serrano (hotter, similar crispness)