What are the sun requirements for Capsicum annuum 'Early Jalapeño'?

Capsicum annuum 'Early Jalapeño' requires full sun.

How much water does Capsicum annuum 'Early Jalapeño' need?

Capsicum annuum 'Early Jalapeño' has moderate water needs.

Annuals

Capsicum annuum 'Early Jalapeño'

Early Jalapeño Pepper

UnknownNorth America

At a Glance

Typeannual

Habitcompact bushy

Foliagedeciduous

Height18-24 inches

Width18-24 inches

Key Features

Attracts Pollinators

Attracts Butterflies

Deer Resistant

Container Friendly

Native to North America

Maintenancemoderate

Overview

Capsicum annuum 'Early Jalapeño' is a compact, bushy annual pepper plant that produces the classic jalapeño peppers earlier in the season than standard varieties. The plant typically reaches 18-24 inches in height with a similar spread, featuring dark green, oval-shaped leaves with smooth margins. Small white flowers appear in clusters along the stems, giving way to the characteristic smooth, thick-walled peppers that mature from dark green to red if left on the plant. The peppers themselves are cylindrical with a slightly tapered end, measuring 2-4 inches in length and about 1 inch in diameter. Capsicum annuum 'Early Jalapeño' is distinguished from other jalapeño cultivars by its earlier maturity and reliable production in shorter growing seasons. The fruits have the traditional jalapeño flavor profile with moderate heat levels ranging from 2,500 to 8,000 Scoville Heat Units, making them versatile for both fresh consumption and cooking applications.

Native Range

Capsicum annuum is native to Mexico and Central America, where wild forms have been cultivated for thousands of years. The species originated in the highlands of central and southern Mexico, with archaeological evidence showing domestication dating back to around 3500 BCE.

Suggested Uses

Capsicum annuum 'Early Jalapeño' works well in vegetable gardens, raised beds, and containers. Excellent for fresh eating, pickling, stuffing, and cooking in various cuisines. The compact size makes it ideal for patio containers and small-space gardening. Peppers can be harvested green for milder flavor or allowed to ripen to red for sweeter, more complex taste. Perfect for salsa gardens and herb and vegetable combinations.

How to Identify

Capsicum annuum 'Early Jalapeño' can be identified by its compact, bushy growth habit and distinctive pepper fruits that are shorter and broader than many other hot pepper varieties. The leaves are dark green, smooth, and oval-shaped without the wrinkled texture found in some pepper species. The small white flowers have five petals and appear in clusters at leaf nodes. The fruits are the most distinguishing feature - smooth, glossy, thick-walled peppers that are typically 2-4 inches long with a characteristic jalapeño shape that's wider at the stem end and tapers to a rounded point.

Appearance

Size & Dimensions

Height1'6" - 2'

Width/Spread1'6" - 2'

Colors

Flower Colors

white

Foliage Colors

green

Bloom Information

Bloom Period

SummerFall

summer through early fall

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

white

Foliage Description

dark green

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

Full Sun

• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight

• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight

• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight

Soil Requirements

pH Range6.0 - 7.0(Neutral)

357912

Drainage

well drained

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate

Frost Tolerance

tender

Time to Maturity

65-75 days

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Capsicum annuum 'Early Jalapeño' requires consistent care for optimal pepper production. Water regularly to maintain even soil moisture, but avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot and reduced fruit set. Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time, then switch to a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer once flowering begins to promote fruit development rather than excessive foliage growth. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Support plants with small stakes or cages if needed, especially when loaded with fruit. Monitor for common pests like aphids, spider mites, and pepper hornworms, and address issues promptly.

Pruning

Capsicum annuum 'Early Jalapeño' benefits from light pruning to improve air circulation and fruit production. Pinch off the first flowers that appear to encourage stronger plant establishment. Remove any suckers that develop in the crotch between main stems and branches. Late in the season, pinch off new flower buds to direct energy toward ripening existing fruits. Remove any diseased, damaged, or yellowing leaves throughout the growing season to maintain plant health.

Pruning Schedule

summerfall

Maintenance Level

moderate

Container Growing

✓ Suitable for container growing

Minimum container size: 5 gallons

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Capsicum annuum 'Early Jalapeño' peppers contain capsaicin, which gives them their heat and can cause burning sensations in the mouth, throat, and on skin. While not toxic, the capsaicin can cause discomfort if consumed in large quantities or if sensitive individuals handle the peppers without gloves. The leaves and stems are not typically consumed and may cause mild stomach upset if ingested. Generally safe for most people when peppers are consumed in normal culinary amounts.

Planting Guide

Planting Methods & Timing

Planting Method

transplant

Indoor Start

8 weeks before last frost

Direct Sow Timing

not recommended - start indoors

Days to Maturity

65–75 days

Plant Spacing

18 inches

Companion Planting

Good Companions

tomatoes

basil

oregano

parsley

onions

carrots

eggplant

Avoid Planting With

fennel

kohlrabi

beans