Datil Pepper

Datil Pepper Plants in 4-Inch and 6-Inch Pots Available in Jupiter, FL

The Datil Pepper (Capsicum chinense 'Datil') is a Florida heirloom with a cult following—and for good reason. These fiery little peppers pack a sweet, fruity flavor followed by a sharp, satisfying heat that rivals habaneros. Traditionally grown in St. Augustine, they thrive just as beautifully in South Florida’s warm, humid climate, rewarding growers with vibrant golden-orange pods and rich flavor perfect for hot sauces, marinades, and cooking.

In 4-inch and 6-inch pots, these datil plants are garden-ready and fast-growing—perfect for raised beds, patio pots, or in-ground abundance.

Care & Growing Info (Optimized for South Florida):

Sunlight: Full sun—6+ hours daily for best fruiting and strong stems.

Watering: Moderate. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water at the base to prevent leaf fungus.

Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil enriched with compost or organic matter. Slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal.

Fertilizer: Use a balanced vegetable fertilizer every 3–4 weeks. Boost with phosphorus during flowering for stronger fruit set.

Growth Habit: Bushy and compact, reaching 2–4 feet tall. Can be staked or caged for support as it fruits heavily.

Temperature: USDA Zones 9–11. Thrives in heat and humidity. Protect from cold snaps below 50°F. In South Florida, it can overwinter in mild years.

Maintenance: Low. Prune lightly to encourage airflow and fruiting. Watch for aphids and caterpillars—treat with neem oil if needed.

Harvest & Seasonality:

Planting Time: Best planted in early spring or fall in South Florida. Can grow year-round with frost protection.

Harvest Time: Produces in 70–100 days from transplanting. Continues fruiting through warm seasons.

How to Harvest: Pick when peppers turn fully golden-orange and feel firm. Regular picking encourages more fruit.

Seasonal Notes: Excellent for hot sauce making, pickling, and spicy cooking. The flavor is uniquely sweet-hot—distinct from other hot peppers.

Medicinal & Nutritional Benefits:

Datil peppers are rich in capsaicin, Vitamin C, and antioxidants. Capsaicin has anti-inflammatory properties, supports metabolism, and may help relieve pain and boost circulation.

Ideal For:

• Hot sauce lovers and spicy food fans

• South Florida edible gardens and patio containers

• Heirloom pepper collectors

• Culinary gardens with bold flavor profiles

• Gardeners who love Florida-native history

Plant Classification:

Scientific Name: Capsicum chinense 'Datil'
Common Name: Datil Pepper
Plant Type: Fruiting vegetable (pepper)
Family: Solanaceae (nightshade family)
Class: Dicot – Broadleaf annual/perennial
Growth Form: Upright, bushy fruiting plant
Evergreen/Deciduous: Typically grown as an annual but can behave as a perennial in frost-free zones
Perennial or Annual: Tender perennial in South Florida; often grown as an annual elsewhere

Container Sizes: 4-inch pot or 6-inch pot