Chile de Arbol (Capsicum annuum) 2L Pot

Chile de Árbol is a Mexican chilli variety grown for its slender red fruit and hot flavour.

The plant produces small white flowers followed by narrow, tapered peppers. Fruit develops green before ripening to a bright or deep red colour.

The thin-walled peppers normally reach approximately 5–8 cm long and dry readily after harvesting. They have a direct chilli heat with a slightly smoky flavour when dried.

Chile de Árbol is commonly used in Mexican sauces, salsas, chilli powders and dried seasoning.

In the UK, it grows best in a greenhouse or polytunnel but can also be grown on a warm and sheltered patio.

Plant Details

Botanical name: Capsicum annuum
Common names: Chile de Árbol, Tree Chilli
Plant family: Solanaceae
Habit: Upright, branching annual or short-lived tender perennial
Potential height: Approximately 60–120 cm under suitable conditions
Foliage: Green, pointed leaves
Flowers: Small white flowers
Fruit: Narrow peppers ripening from green to red
Typical fruit length: Approximately 5–8 cm
Heat level: Hot
Position: Full sun
Suitable for: Greenhouses, polytunnels, patios and containers
Hardiness: Tender and not frost hardy

Growing Advice

Grow your Chile de Árbol in fertile, well-draining compost in a warm and sunny position. Transfer the plant into a larger container if required to support continued growth and fruit production.

Keep the compost evenly moist while the plant is actively growing. Avoid waterlogging and repeated wilting during flowering and fruit development.

Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser during early growth. Change to a high-potassium tomato feed once flowers or young fruit appear.

The plant can develop a tall, open structure and may benefit from support with a cane.

Plants grown outside should only be moved outdoors after the risk of frost has passed.

Chile de Árbol is normally grown as an annual in the UK but can sometimes be overwintered in a bright, frost-free position.

Fruiting in the UK

Chile de Árbol can fruit successfully in the UK when given sufficient warmth and light. Greenhouse or polytunnel cultivation offers the best chance of fully ripened red fruit.

Peppers intended for drying should be allowed to reach their mature red colour before harvesting.

What You Will Receive

You will receive one healthy Chile de Árbol plant growing in a 2-litre pot. Plants are typically dispatched at approximately 20–30 cm tall.

Plants may be supplied before flowering or fruiting. Size and development will vary depending on the time of year.

Important Information

Chile de Árbol peppers are hot.

Wear gloves when harvesting, cutting or preparing the peppers. Avoid touching your eyes or face and wash your hands thoroughly after handling.