Capsicum annuum 'Jalapeño', Jalapeño Pepper
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Vegetables

Capsicum annuum 'Jalapeño'

Jalapeño Pepper

SolanaceaeCentral America

At a Glance

Typeannual
Habitupright bushy
Foliagedeciduous
Height24-36 inches
Width18-24 inches

Growing Zones

USDA Hardiness Zones

5a - 10b
Zone 5a
Zone 5b
Zone 6a
Zone 6b
Zone 7a
Zone 7b
Zone 8a
Zone 8b
Zone 9a
Zone 9b
Zone 10a
Zone 10b
These zones indicate the coldest temperatures this plant can typically survive.
Frost Tolerancetender

Key Features

Attracts Pollinators
Attracts Butterflies
Deer Resistant
Container Friendly
Maintenancemoderate

Overview

Capsicum annuum 'Jalapeño' is a compact, bushy annual pepper plant that typically grows 24-36 inches tall and 18-24 inches wide. The plant features dark green, oval-shaped leaves with smooth margins and a slightly glossy texture. Small white flowers appear in clusters along the stems, giving way to the characteristic cone-shaped fruits that are initially dark green and mature to bright red if left on the plant. The peppers are typically 2-4 inches long with thick walls and a tapered end, offering a moderate heat level of 2,500-8,000 Scoville units. This cultivar is distinguished from other Capsicum annuum varieties by its specific fruit size, shape, and heat level, making it one of the most recognizable and widely grown hot pepper varieties.

Native Range

Capsicum annuum is native to Central and South America, particularly the regions of Mexico and northern Guatemala, where wild ancestors still grow naturally in tropical and subtropical areas.

Suggested Uses

Capsicum annuum 'Jalapeño' works well in vegetable gardens, raised beds, and containers. Excellent for culinary gardens, salsa gardens, and hot pepper collections. Can be grown in large containers on patios or decks for easy harvest access. Popular for fresh eating, pickling, stuffing, and adding heat to various dishes.

How to Identify

Capsicum annuum 'Jalapeño' can be identified by its distinctive cone-shaped peppers that are 2-4 inches long, typically harvested when dark green but capable of ripening to red. The compact, bushy growth habit reaches 24-36 inches tall with dark green, smooth oval leaves. Small white star-shaped flowers appear in clusters, and the peppers hang downward from the stems with characteristic blunt, slightly rounded tips and thick walls that distinguish them from other hot pepper varieties.

Appearance

Size & Dimensions

Height2' - 3'
Width/Spread1'6" - 2'

Colors

Flower Colors

white

Foliage Colors

green

Bloom Information

Bloom Period

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
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 - 6.8(Neutral)
357912
Drainage
moist

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate

Frost Tolerance

tender

Time to Maturity

10-12 weeks from transplant

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Capsicum annuum 'Jalapeño' requires consistent moisture throughout the growing season, with soil kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply 1-2 times per week, providing about 1 inch of water weekly. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer during active growth, switching to a lower nitrogen, higher phosphorus formula once flowering begins to encourage fruit production. Maintain soil temperature above 60°F for optimal growth, and provide support stakes if plants become heavy with fruit.

Pruning

Capsicum annuum 'Jalapeño' benefits from light pruning to improve air circulation and fruit production. Pinch off early flowers until plants are 6-8 inches tall to encourage stronger root and stem development. Remove suckers that grow in the crotch between main stems and branches. Late in the season, prune growing tips to redirect energy into ripening existing fruits rather than producing new growth.

Pruning Schedule

summerfall

Maintenance Level

moderate

Container Growing

✓ Suitable for container growing

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Capsicum annuum 'Jalapeño' fruits contain capsaicin, which causes burning sensations in mouth and skin. While not toxic, the peppers can cause significant discomfort if consumed in large quantities or if seeds and oils contact sensitive areas like eyes. Handle with gloves and wash hands thoroughly after harvesting. Generally safe for pets in small amounts, but may cause digestive upset.

Planting Guide

Planting Methods & Timing

Planting Method

transplant

Indoor Start

8 weeks before last frost

Direct Sow Timing

not recommended for direct sowing in most climates

Days to Maturity

70–80 days

Plant Spacing

18 inches

Companion Planting

Good Companions

tomatoes
basil
oregano
parsley
carrots
onions
marigolds

Avoid Planting With

fennel
beans
brassicas
apricots