The Aji Cubano Dulce Cachucha Pepper (Capsicum chinense) is a compact ornamental pepper variety admired for its vibrant hanging pods and bright green foliage. Producing small, lantern-shaped fruiting displays, it adds vivid color to containers, raised beds, and decorative garden borders. Its delicate blossoms support pollinators, making it both visually striking and ecologically beneficial in sunny landscapes.
This heirloom pepper thrives in warm growing conditions and continues producing ornamental pods throughout the season.
Features
• Bright, lantern-shaped ornamental pepper pods
• Compact bushy habit ideal for small gardens & containers
• White blossoms support bees and beneficial pollinators
• Adds vivid red color to summer garden landscapes
• Non-GMO heirloom Capsicum chinense seeds
Specifications
• Common Name: Cachucha Pepper (ornamental type)
• Also Known As: Aji Cubano Dulce
• Scientific Name: Capsicum chinense
• Plant Type: Annual ornamental fruiting plant
• USDA Zones: 4–11 (grown as annual)
• Height: 18–30 inches
• Spread: 12–24 inches
• Foliage: Bright green smooth leaves
• Flower Color: White blossoms
• Fruiting Display: Small lantern-shaped red pods
• Display Season: Mid-summer through fall
• Growth Habit: Compact branching bush
• Heirloom: Yes
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Organic: Not certified organic
• Light Requirements: Full sun preferred
• Soil Preference: Loose, well-drained soil
• Water Needs: Moderate moisture; avoid soggy soil
• Pollinator Value: Supports bees and beneficial insects
• Maintenance Level: Low to moderate
• Plant Spacing: 12–18 inches
• Seed Viability: 2–4 years stored cool and dry
Planting Guide
• Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost date.
• Sow seeds ¼ inch deep in warm, moist soil.
• Maintain 70–90°F for germination (7–21 days).
• Transplant outdoors only after frost danger has passed.
• Grow in full sun for strongest color and branching.
• Avoid over-watering; water only when top soil begins to dry.
• Allow blossoms to set naturally to support pollinators and pod formation.