Rocoto manzano (Capsicum pubescens) 2L Pot

Rocoto Manzano is a Capsicum pubescens chilli grown for its rounded, apple-shaped fruit and thick, juicy flesh.

The name manzano means “apple tree” in Spanish and refers to the shape of the peppers. The plant develops softly hairy leaves and stems, purple flowers and dark brown to black seeds.

Fruit colour varies between Rocoto Manzano seed lines, although red is the most commonly grown form. The rounded peppers have thick walls and a fruity flavour followed by strong heat.

Rocoto Manzano can be used for stuffing, roasting, sauces, relishes and cooked dishes. It is closely associated with Central and South American cooking.

In the UK, Rocoto Manzano can be grown in a greenhouse, polytunnel or sheltered outdoor position. It is more tolerant of cool summer conditions than many Capsicum chinense varieties but is not frost hardy.

Plant Details

Botanical name: Capsicum pubescens
Common names: Rocoto Manzano, Manzano Pepper, Apple Chilli
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: Rounded, thick-walled peppers
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 Manzano in fertile, moisture-retentive but well-draining compost. Move the plant into a large, stable container as it develops.

Keep the compost consistently moist throughout active growth. Avoid repeated wilting, particularly while the plant is flowering and carrying fruit.

Place the plant in a bright position with good ventilation. Rocotos may benefit from some afternoon shade during very hot greenhouse conditions.

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

The long, branching stems may require support, particularly once the plant begins carrying mature peppers.

Rocoto Manzano is perennial and can be overwintered in a bright, frost-free position. Established plants often develop woody stems and may produce an earlier crop in following seasons.

Fruiting in the UK

Rocoto Manzano requires a long growing season, and the thick-walled peppers can take several months to ripen.

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

What You Will Receive

You will receive one healthy Rocoto Manzano Chilli 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, dark seeds or fruit. Fruit shape and mature colouring may vary according to the seed line and growing conditions.

Important Information

Rocoto Manzano peppers are hot.

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