Serrano (Capsicum annuum) 2L Pot

Serrano is a Mexican chilli type grown for its narrow fruit and clean, direct heat.

The plant develops an upright, bushy habit and produces small white flowers followed by smooth, cylindrical peppers. The fruit is normally harvested while green but will ripen to red when left on the plant.

Serrano peppers are generally hotter than jalapeños. They are commonly used fresh in salsas, sauces, marinades and cooked dishes.

In the UK, Serrano grows well in a greenhouse, polytunnel or warm and sheltered patio position.

Plant Details

Botanical name: Capsicum annuum
Common name: Serrano Chilli
Plant family: Solanaceae
Habit: Upright, bushy annual or short-lived tender perennial
Potential height: Approximately 60–80 cm under suitable conditions
Foliage: Green, pointed leaves
Flowers: Small white flowers
Fruit: Narrow, cylindrical peppers ripening from green to red
Typical fruit length: Approximately 5–10 cm
Heat level: Medium-hot to hot
Position: Full sun
Suitable for: Greenhouses, polytunnels, patios and containers
Hardiness: Tender and not frost hardy

Growing Advice

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

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

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

Plants may be placed outside after the risk of frost has passed. Choose a sunny, sheltered position.

Serrano is normally grown as an annual in the UK but may sometimes be overwintered in a bright, frost-free position.

Fruiting in the UK

Serrano can produce fruit successfully in the UK when given sufficient warmth and sunlight. Greenhouse and polytunnel cultivation usually provides the earliest and most reliable crop.

Peppers can be harvested while firm and green or left to ripen to red for a sweeter and more mature flavour.

What You Will Receive

You will receive one Serrano Chilli 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

Serrano peppers are hot and may be considerably hotter than a typical jalapeño.

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