Family: Nightshade (Solanaceae)

Most of these are perennial in zones 10-12, otherwise grown as summer annuals, 90 to 120 days to harvest

Peppers are native to tropical America but were distributed with the early migrations. Probably a more appropriate term would be “Capsicum” or “Aji” since the conquistadores mislabeled them as akin to the black pepper, but mislabels live on and on. Peppers prefer a scanty, even water supply, good drainage, full sun, and a long, hot summer. Start indoors 40 to 50 days prior to the last frost. Thin seedlings to at least 2 inches apart in the flat. Transplant out to garden after the soil has really warmed up. The best compost for peppers is higher in phosphorous than nitrogen. Kelp is well-tolerated and makes for outrageous yields. This set contains individual packets of our most popular and useful types.

Pepper Seed Set (6 packets): Aji Colorado, Aleppo, African Cayenne, Official Cayenne, Criolla Sella and Thai Volcano, all organic

Price shown is a discount.

6 full-sized packets, Certified Organically Grown

Traditional usage (TWM): flavor enhancement, circulation stimulant, antibacterial, vermifuge, against shock, life extension, prophyllactic to cancer and heart disease.*  All except “Romanian Sweet” are a source of capsaicin.

* American Heart Association Scientific Sessions Report, Presentation P1036

• Consumption of chili pepper may reduce the relative risk of cardiovascular disease mortality by 26%, according to an analysis of diet and mortality data from four large, international studies.
• Chili pepper consumption was associated with a 25% reduction in death from any cause and 23% fewer cancer deaths, compared to people who never or only rarely consumed chili pepper.