Capsicum Baccatum
Contents
Description
Capsicum Baccatum is a species of pepper plant native to South America, particularly Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador. It is also known as the Aji pepper or Peruvian pepper. This plant species is part of the nightshade family, Solanaceae, which also includes tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants. Capsicum Baccatum is a perennial plant that can grow up to five feet tall. It produces small, white, five-petaled flowers that later turn into fruits. These fruits are usually round or oblong in shape and come in different colors, such as yellow, orange, red, and brown. They have a distinct flavor that is slightly sweet and fruity, with a medium heat level that ranges from 30,000 to 50,000 on the Scoville scale.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Capsicum |
Appearance
Capsicum Baccatum has a bushy habit and can grow up to five feet tall. Its leaves are dark green and shiny, and they are oval or lance-shaped. The plant produces small, white, five-petaled flowers that are about half an inch wide. These flowers later turn into fruits, which can be round or oblong in shape and come in various colors, such as yellow, orange, red, and brown. The fruits are about one to two inches long and have a thin, waxy skin. They are also slightly wrinkled and have a tapered end.
Care Guide
Capsicum Baccatum is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it requires specific conditions to thrive. Here are some tips on how to take care of this pepper plant:Water: Capsicum Baccatum needs regular watering, especially during hot weather. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, so make sure to let the soil dry out before watering again.Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and fruit production.Soil: Capsicum Baccatum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal.Sunlight: This pepper plant needs full sun exposure to grow and produce fruits.Hardiness Zones: Capsicum Baccatum is a tropical plant that thrives in warm temperatures. It is suitable for hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Capsicum Baccatum is susceptible to various pests and diseases, such as:- Aphids: These small insects feed on the plant’s sap and can cause deformities in the fruits.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can affect the plant’s growth and reduce the yield.- Fusarium wilt: This fungal disease causes the plant to wilt and die.- Phytophthora blight: This bacterial disease affects the plant’s leaves and fruits, causing them to rot.To prevent these problems, make sure to keep the plant healthy through proper watering, fertilization, and soil management. You can also use pesticides and fungicides as a last resort.
Habitat
Capsicum Baccatum is native to South America, particularly Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador. It grows in tropical and subtropical regions, where the climate is warm and humid. It is usually found in gardens, fields, and forests, and it is often grown as a food crop.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I know when to harvest Capsicum Baccatum fruits?
A: Capsicum Baccatum fruits are ready to harvest when they are fully ripe and have reached their desired color. They should also feel slightly soft to the touch.Q: Can I grow Capsicum Baccatum in a container?
A: Yes, Capsicum Baccatum can be grown in a container as long as it has enough space to grow and the soil is well-draining. Make sure to provide proper watering and fertilization.Q: How often should I fertilize Capsicum Baccatum?
A: Capsicum Baccatum should be fertilized every four to six weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.Q: Can Capsicum Baccatum tolerate frost?
A: No, Capsicum Baccatum is a tropical plant that cannot tolerate frost. It is suitable for hardiness zones 9 to 11, where the temperature rarely drops below 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Related Plants
Here are some related pepper plant species:- Capsicum Annuum (bell pepper, jalapeno, cayenne)- Capsicum Chinense (habanero, scotch bonnet)- Capsicum Frutescens (tabasco, thai chili)
References
– “Capsicum Baccatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287091- “Growing Peppers.” University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources. https://ucanr.edu/sites/gardenweb/Pepper_Growing_Tips/- “A Review on the Biology, Chemistry, and Pharmacological Activity of Capsicum spp.” Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6273552/
