Blondie Chilli (Capsicum baccatum): Overview, Uses, and Growing Instructions
Scientific Name: Capsicum baccatum
Common Names: Blondie Chili, Aji Blondie, Blondie Pepper
Description
Blondie Chili is a variety of Capsicum baccatum, known for its unique pale yellow to light orange fruits. The peppers are small to medium-sized, usually measuring about 2-3 inches long and 1 inch wide, with a distinctive elongated, conical shape. The plant can grow up to 3-4 feet tall, producing numerous fruits throughout the growing season. Blondie chilies have a fruity, citrus-like flavor with mild to moderate heat, making them versatile for culinary use. The plant is highly ornamental due to its attractive flowers and colorful fruits, adding beauty to any garden.
Uses
Culinary: Blondie chilies are popular in South American and Asian cuisines. Their mild heat and fruity flavor make them excellent for fresh salsas, sauces, pickling, and salads. They can be used fresh, dried, or even powdered. They add a unique flavor to dishes without overpowering them with heat.
Medicinal: Like other chilies, Blondie peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and capsaicin, which has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. They are also known to boost metabolism and aid digestion.
Ornamental: The plant’s attractive foliage, white flowers with yellow-green spots, and vibrant fruits make it a decorative addition to gardens and containers.
Growing Instructions
1. Climate and Soil Requirements:
Blondie Chili prefers warm, sunny locations and thrives in temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C). It can tolerate cooler nights but is not frost-hardy.
It grows best in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Adding organic matter like compost can improve soil structure and nutrient content.
2. Planting:
Seeds: Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date. Transplant seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed.
Depth: Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix.
Spacing: Space plants 18-24 inches apart in rows that are 24-36 inches apart to allow room for growth and air circulation.
3. Watering:
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of disease.
4. Fertilization:
Blondie chilies benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied at planting time. A nitrogen-rich fertilizer at the early growth stage encourages lush foliage, while a fertilizer higher in phosphorus and potassium supports flowering and fruiting.
5. Maintenance:
Staking: As the plants grow tall and produce heavy fruits, staking or caging may be necessary to support the branches and prevent them from breaking.
Pests/Diseases: Blondie Chili can be susceptible to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Regular inspection, good air circulation, and organic insecticidal soaps can help manage these issues. Diseases such as blossom end rot, root rot, or fungal infections can occur if watering is inconsistent or soil drainage is poor.
6. Harvesting:
Blondie chilies can be harvested when they are fully ripe and have turned a pale yellow to light orange. Harvesting regularly encourages the plant to continue producing more fruit.
Use scissors or pruners to cut the peppers from the plant to avoid damaging the branches.