Annual
Datil Pepper
Capsicum chinense
Varieties We Carry
DatilCapsicum chinenseHabanero OrangeCapsicum chinenseHabanero RedCapsicum chinense
Sizes & Pricing
4 inFrom$3.95
1 galFrom$6.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 25.
LightFull Sun
WaterModerate
Mature size1.5-2.5 feet × 1-2 feet
About Datil Pepper
A historically significant hot pepper cultivated for centuries in St. Augustine, Florida (Capsicum chinense), producing small, blunt-tipped fruits that ripen to golden orange with fruity, complex heat comparable to a habanero. In Zone 9b mild winters it can persist as a short-lived perennial; plant in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil for best production spring through fall. Starting at $3.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer, Fall
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Loam, Sandy, Well-drained
Care essentials
Light
Grow Datil Pepper in full sun with at least 6–8 hours of direct light daily. In Northeast Florida's long warm season, full sun maximizes fruit production throughout the spring-to-fall fruiting window.
Water
Water consistently to keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged; peppers need regular moisture for fruit set. During dry spells, water deeply 2–3 times per week. Reduce watering as fruits ripen.
Soil & Fertilizer
Plant in well-drained, fertile loamy to sandy soil. Fertilize with a balanced vegetable fertilizer at planting and again when first flowers appear; avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes foliage over fruiting. In Zone 9b mild winters allow this pepper to overwinter as a short-lived perennial with protection from rare freezes.
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Common questions
Is Datil Pepper a good plant for St. Augustine?
Datil Pepper is a annual for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 1.5-2.5 feet × 1-2 feet.