Rocoto Arequipa (Capsicum pubescens) 2L Pot

Rocoto Arequipa is a large-fruited Peruvian chilli variety grown for its rounded red peppers and thick, juicy flesh.

Unlike most commonly cultivated chilli species, Capsicum pubescens develops softly hairy leaves and stems, purple flowers and dark brown or black seeds.

Rocoto Arequipa produces rounded peppers that can reach approximately 5 cm in diameter under suitable conditions. The thick-walled fruit has a fresh, fruity flavour combined with substantial heat.

The peppers are suited to stuffing, sauces, relishes and cooked dishes. Rocotos are particularly associated with the cuisine of Arequipa in southern Peru.

In the UK, Rocoto Arequipa can be grown in a greenhouse, polytunnel or sheltered outdoor position. It tolerates cooler summer conditions better than many tropical chilli varieties but remains vulnerable to frost.

Plant Details

Botanical name: Capsicum pubescens
Common names: Rocoto Arequipa, Arequipa Rocoto
Plant family: Solanaceae
Habit: Vigorous, branching tender perennial
Potential height: Approximately 1.2–2 metres under suitable conditions
Foliage: Green, softly hairy leaves
Flowers: Purple flowers
Fruit: Large, rounded peppers ripening to red
Seeds: Dark brown to black
Heat level: Hot
Position: Full sun or bright partial shade
Suitable for: Greenhouses, polytunnels, patios and large containers
Hardiness: Tender and not frost hardy

Growing Advice

Grow your Rocoto Arequipa in fertile, moisture-retentive but well-draining compost. Move the plant into a large, stable container as it develops.

Keep the compost consistently moist during active growth, but do not leave the pot standing in water. Rocotos generally prefer steady moisture and may drop flowers if repeatedly allowed to wilt.

Place the plant in a bright position with good ventilation. Unlike many other chillies, Rocoto may benefit from some protection from intense midday heat inside a greenhouse.

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

The branching stems may require support, particularly when carrying mature fruit.

Rocoto plants are perennial and are worth attempting to overwinter. Keep the plant in a bright, frost-free position and reduce watering while growth is slow.

Fruiting in the UK

Rocoto Arequipa requires a long growing season, and the fruit can be slow to ripen. Established overwintered plants may crop earlier than plants grown fresh each year.

Fruit production is possible outdoors in sheltered locations, but a greenhouse or polytunnel gives more reliable results.

What You Will Receive

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

Young plants may not yet display purple flowers, black seeds or fruit. Size and development will vary naturally.

Important Information

Rocoto peppers are hot despite their resemblance to small sweet peppers.

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