Habanero Orange Pepper Seed
Habanero Orange Pepper Seed
The Orange Habanero, a lantern-shaped fruit with a golden-orange hue, stands out not just for its intense heat but also for its pronounced fruity aroma. Renowned for its fiery kick, the Orange Habanero is a staple among the world's spiciest peppers. This variety undergoes a color transformation from a soft silvery green to a vibrant orange as it reaches maturity, signaling its readiness for harvest.
Known for its position on the Scoville scale, the Orange Habanero is a testament to the natural spectrum of pepper heat. Its notoriety in the realm of spicy foods is well-deserved, with a heat that is both intense and characteristic of the Habanero family. The orange variant brings a unique twist to the table, with a flavor profile that leans towards the fruity end of the spectrum, setting it apart from its yellow and red counterparts.
While the Orange Habanero is celebrated for its fiery heat, it also offers a subtle sweet citrus nuance that enriches its overall taste. This distinctive flavor makes it a sought-after ingredient for those looking to add a depth of flavor and a blast of heat to their dishes. Despite its potent heat, the habanero chili undergoes a fascinating color transition as it matures, starting from green and gradually adopting its signature orange hue. The compact size of the plant, rarely exceeding 60 cm in height, makes it an excellent choice for those interested in container gardening, allowing for the cultivation of this hot pepper in a variety of settings.
In essence, the Orange Habanero is more than just a source of heat; it's a culinary adventure that offers a complex blend of flavors. Its suitability for container gardening means that even those with limited space can enjoy the thrill of growing one of the hottest peppers known to man. Whether used fresh to invigorate a salsa or dried to infuse oils and sauces, the Orange Habanero invites a daring exploration into the intensity and depth of flavors that hot peppers can provide.
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How To Grow
How To Grow
Start your Habanero Orange seeds indoors in peat pots approximately 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost. Sow seeds about 6 mm deep in moist, well-draining soil and maintain a temperature of 24-30°C for germination, which usually occurs within 7-14 days. Provide ample light, either from a sunny window or a grow light, for 12-16 hours per day. Once seedlings have developed 2-3 true leaves and outdoor temperatures consistently exceed 18°C, harden off the plants by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for a week before transplanting. Space the plants 40-60 cm apart in a location that receives full sun.
Sowing and Growing: For optimal growth, Habanero Orange peppers require a warm climate, with daytime temperatures ranging between 24-32°C and nighttime temperatures not dropping below 18°C. Plant them in well-draining soil rich in organic matter, ensuring they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Regular watering is crucial to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, and a layer of mulch can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Habanero plants benefit from support stakes or cages to keep the growing fruits off the ground. With proper care, these vibrant orange peppers will be ready to add a fiery kick to dishes all season long.
Harvesting
Harvesting
Harvesting Habanero Orange peppers requires careful timing for optimal heat and flavor. When the peppers achieve a vibrant orange hue, they're ready to be picked. Typically, this occurs around 100 to 120 days after sowing. To harvest, gently cut the peppers from the plant with scissors or a sharp knife to avoid damaging the plant. Wear gloves to protect your skin from the capsaicin, which can cause irritation.
Seed Saving
Seed Saving
To save seeds from Habanero Orange peppers, choose fully matured peppers that are healthy and free from disease. Cut the pepper open and remove the seeds, spreading them out to dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area for a week. Once dry, store the seeds in a cool, dry place in a labeled envelope, ensuring they are completely moisture-free to prevent mold. These seeds can remain viable for up to two years if stored properly.
Extra Facts
Extra Facts
Planting Season: Indoor, Outdoor
Blooming Season: Warm Season
Latin Name/USDA Zones: Capsicum chinense/ 9, 10, 11
Sunlight Required/ Height: Full Sunlight/ 60 cm
Shelf Life After Test Date: 2 years after the test date
Seed Type: Non-GMO
Soil Type: Loam Soil or Clay Soil