(Capsicum baccatum) A member of the Aji family of hot peppers native to Bolivia, Criolla Sella is an excellent producer of small (2.5” x 3/8”) golden orange fruits in abundance. The heat is middling and the flavor amazingly rich and citrusy. It can be used fresh in salsas, fermented or cooked for hot sauces, or dried and ground for a very flavorful seasoning. An early Aji type, Criolla Sella is particularly well adapted to cooler growing conditions from germination to fruit set. Plants stand about 3’ with small leaves and heavy branching and do not require support.
90 days. UO

Packet: 30 seeds

[split]

Growing Info

SOWING:

Indoors, 6-8 weeks before your last frost date.

Transplant out after danger of frost (50+ nighttime temps).

Note: Protect well from the cold!

PLANTING DEPTH:

1/4"

SPACING:

12-24" spacing in rows 24-36" apart.

EMERGENCE:

7-14 days @ soil temp 70-85F

LIGHT:

Full sun

FERTILITY:

Moderate-Heavy. Prefer well-drained, fertile soil with ample phosphorous and calcium (too little calcium can cause blossom end rot) and a pH between 6.5-6.8.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

Pepper seeds germinate very slowly and poorly in cold soil. Keep soil temperatures at 80-90F while germinating, and grow plants at 70F.

After transplanting, use a floating row cover to keep plants warmer during the day and protect them from cold nights. Remove as temperatures increase. Too much heat can cause blossom drop.

Taller varieties benefit from staking.

Harvesting ripe fruit consistently encourages fruit production.

Hot Pepper, 'Criolla Sella'