Lemon Aji
Fruity South American Heat

Lemon Aji Chilli Plug Plant

Lemon Aji Chilli Plug Plant

Zesty sunshine with a twist:Heat Level: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆

The Lemon Aji is a stunning chilli variety that has become a favourite among chilli enthusiasts and gardeners alike. Originating from Peru, this plant is known for its vigorous growth and heavy fruiting. As the name suggests, the Lemon Aji produces distinctive pods that are packed with a sharp, citrusy flavour and an intense heat that sets it apart from other varieties.

Watching these chillies grow is a rewarding experience; the plants develop sprawling branches that can reach up to a metre tall, often requiring support to manage their abundant growth.

What makes the Lemon Aji particularly captivating is its fruiting process. The plants become laden with lime green, crumpled pods that gradually ripen to a bright, sunny yellow. The transformation is a sight to behold and will have you eagerly checking your plants as they progress.

The chillies themselves offer a sharp heat level, typically ranging between 30,000 to 50,000 Scoville Units, accompanied by an intense lemony flavour that adds a zesty kick to dishes. These characteristics make the Lemon Aji an all-around winner, perfect for adding fresh heat and flavour to a variety of culinary creations, from salsas and sauces to stir-fries and salads.

Read more about Lemon Aji and Havana Gold in the blog feature: Inca Gold.

Additional Information

Species: Capsicum baccatum

Heat Level: Moderate, ranging from 30,000 to 50,000 Scoville Units

Vigorous Growth: Sprawling growth habit that can reach up to 1 metre in height. May require support as it becomes laden with fruit.
Fruit Appearance: Lime green, crumpled pods that ripen to a bright yellow. Pods can grow up to 7–9 cm in length.

Flavour Profile: Sharp, citrusy, and intensely lemony with a fresh, fruity undertone. Adds a zesty kick to dishes without overpowering them.

Fruiting Time: Fast to fruit, with pods typically ready for harvest 70 days from transplanting.

Uses: Ideal for fresh salsas, hot sauces, and adding a zesty touch to stir-fries and salads. The unique lemon flavour complements a wide range of dishes.

Growing Conditions: Thrives in warm, sunny environments with well-drained soil. Suitable for greenhouses, gardens, or large pots. Requires regular watering and may need support as the plant grows.

How to Grow Chillies: My free 28-page booklet, "How to Grow Chillies," is included with every plant order to help you achieve a successful harvest.

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World of Chillies was set up by Sarah Hunt in 2011 to promote chilli growing and the enjoyment of everything hot and spicy.

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1. Easy to Grow: Some chillies are just a joy to grow — compact, reliable, and happy in a pot (5). Others shoot off in all directions or sulk at the first sign of wind (1). I’ve given higher scores to the ones that do well here in the UK.

2. Ornamental Quality: A few of these are real show-offs, with pods that look like jewels or dramatic foliage that turns heads. Others are more practical than pretty. This score is just about how good they look on the patio or in the greenhouse.

3. Heat Level: This isn’t a technical SHU score — it’s just a kitchen-friendly 1 to 5. A 1 means very mild (like a jalapeño), a 5 is properly hot (think Bhut Jolokia). It should help you judge what you’re in for!

4. Hardiness: How well do they cope with our unpredictable summers? I’ve given higher scores to the tough ones that keep going through cool nights, wind, or patchy weather without much fuss.

5. Culinary Use: This one’s about how often I actually use them. Some are perfect for pickling, stuffing or powders — others look good but don’t end up in many meals. If it’s flavourful and versatile, it scores high.

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