Dharaseeds
Hot Pepper Seeds - Cayenne Orange
Estimated delivery between February 04 and February 07.
The Cayenne Orange pepper is a vibrant, spicy variety that offers both a burst of heat and a distinct fruity flavor. Known for its fiery intensity, this pepper is a favorite for anyone looking to add an extra kick to their dishes. With a Scoville rating of around 30,000–50,000 SHU, it provides medium to high heat, making it versatile for hot sauces, salsas, and seasoning blends. Its bright orange color and slightly wrinkled skin give it a striking appearance, making it a beautiful addition to any garden.
Key Benefits
- Medium to High Heat: With a Scoville rating of 30,000–50,000 SHU, the Cayenne Orange delivers a strong, spicy kick without being overwhelming.
- Distinctive Flavor: Along with its heat, it has a unique, fruity flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
- Versatile: Ideal for making hot sauces, salsas, and seasoning blends, as well as adding flavor to curries and stir-fries.
- High Yield: Produces an abundant harvest of peppers, ensuring plenty to use fresh or preserve for later use.
- Vibrant Appearance: The striking orange color of the peppers makes them a visual highlight in the garden or on your plate.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Bushy plants that typically reach 24–30 inches in height, with dark green leaves and medium-sized peppers.
- Fruit Profile: The peppers are 3–5 inches long, slender, and typically orange when ripe. Their skin is smooth but slightly wrinkled, adding texture to their appearance.
- Flavor: The Cayenne Orange has a strong, fruity, slightly smoky flavor that complements its heat.
- Maturity: The peppers are ready to harvest about 70–90 days after transplanting, depending on growing conditions.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last expected frost date.
- Transplant the seedlings outdoors once all danger of frost has passed, and the soil has warmed to at least 70°F (21°C).
Planting Details
- Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep in a well-draining, sterile seed-starting mix.
- Spacing: Space plants 18–24 inches apart to ensure good airflow and reduce the risk of disease.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0.
- Sunlight: Full sun is ideal for these peppers, as it helps them develop their heat and flavor.
Care Instructions
Watering
- Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
- Water deeply, especially during dry spells, to ensure the plants' roots stay healthy.
Fertilization
- Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time, and then use a phosphorus-rich fertilizer once the plants begin to flower to encourage fruit set.
Weeding and Mulching
- Keep the area around the plants free of weeds to reduce competition for nutrients.
- Apply mulch to help retain soil moisture, maintain even soil temperatures, and suppress weeds.
Pest and Disease Control
- Pests: Watch for aphids, spider mites, and pepper weevils. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can be used to control these pests.
- Diseases: Cayenne Orange peppers are susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Ensure good air circulation around the plants, avoid overhead watering, and rotate crops annually.
Harvesting
When to Harvest
- Harvest peppers once they have reached a deep orange color and are firm to the touch. Depending on the growing conditions, this can take 70–90 days after transplanting.
How to Harvest
- Use scissors or pruning shears to cut the peppers from the plant, leaving a small portion of the stem attached. Be sure to wear gloves, as the oils can cause irritation.
Storage
- Fresh Storage: Store fresh Cayenne Orange peppers in the refrigerator for up to 1–2 weeks.
- Drying: Dry the peppers by stringing them together or laying them out in a well-ventilated area. Dried peppers can be stored for several months.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the peppers whole or sliced for long-term storage.
Culinary Uses
- Hot Sauces: A key ingredient in many hot sauces, providing heat and a fruity flavor.
- Salsas: Add to fresh or cooked salsas for a spicy kick.
- Seasoning: Grind into pepper flakes or powder to season meats, vegetables, and soups.
- Curry and Stir-Fry: Add whole or sliced peppers to curries and stir-fries for extra spice and flavor.
- Pickling: Slice and pickle for a fiery condiment to serve with sandwiches, tacos, or grilled meats.
Conclusion
The Cayenne Orange pepper is an excellent choice for those looking for a medium-to-hot pepper with a unique flavor profile. Its fruity, slightly smoky taste combined with a strong heat level makes it ideal for cooking, hot sauces, and seasoning blends. With high yields and vibrant color, it’s a great addition to any garden and a must-have for spice lovers.