Aji Cristal

Also called Aji Crystal, this Peruvian Baccatum ranges from mild when green to hotter when ripe. One of the earlier producers in a Midwestern garden. Heavy larger fruit on a lankier plant may necessitate staking. 2025 Update: For the love of all that is holy, stake these bad boys!

The peppers, both unripe and ripe, have crunchy with thick walls. Fruit are commonly eaten green/yellow. Great in salsas. I have found a special place for aji cristal as a hot sauce ingredient to help taper the heat of superhots. In fermented sauces, fresh aji cristal peppers are blended in at finish until a desired taste is reached (if pasteurizing the fermented sauce).

30000 SHU. This is an estimate. Scoville ratings will change based on growing conditions.