SuperhotC. pubescensPeru
Rocoto
Locoto · Caballo · Manzano · Perón
100,000Scoville Heat Units
Heat context
Carolina Reaper
Ghost Pepper
Habanero
Rocoto
Illustration coming soon
Botanical data
Heat (SHU)100,000
SpeciesC. pubescens
OriginPeru
Days to mature120
Plant height120–200 cm
Wall thicknessThick
Ripe colourred
YieldModerate
Growth habitBush
Germination21-35
FoliageGreen
Unripe colourgreen
About this variety
A distinctive Andean chilli with thick, fleshy walls and black seeds, adapted to cool mountain climates. The apple-shaped pods are highly prized in South American cuisine for their crisp texture and fruity heat. Unlike most peppers, Rocoto plants have hairy leaves and purple flowers, thriving at higher elevations where other varieties struggle.
Flavour profile
fruitycrispbrightapple-likeclean heat
Culinary scores
Sauce
8/10
Drying
3/10
Pickling
6/10
Culinary uses
Essential for Peruvian rocoto relleno (stuffed peppers), salsas, and ceviches. The thick walls make them ideal for stuffing with meat and cheese. Commonly used fresh in South American cooking, particularly in highland regions.
Quick reference
Heat100,000 SHU
SpeciesC. pubescens
OriginPeru
Days to ripe120
Ripe colourred
Best forSauce, Essential for Peruvian rocoto relleno (stuffed peppers)
Data confidence: 5/5. Sourced from community submissions and verified references. Suggest a correction