Chilli Pepper Pikito Seeds - Compact Hot Variety (20,000 SHU)

Chilli Pepper ‘Pikito’ Seeds

Pikito is a compact, early-maturing Capsicum frutescens chilli pepper ideal for patio containers, pots, and small growing spaces. Neat, productive plants produce masses of downward-facing fruits that ripen from bright green to vivid red, creating a colourful and ornamental display.

Each plant reliably produces 75+ slender fruits, measuring around 5–6 cm long, with a lively heat level of approximately 20,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). This makes Pikito a great choice for everyday spicy cooking, delivering enough heat to lift dishes without overwhelming them.

Best finished in 12 cm pots for commercial sales before being potted on into larger containers, Pikito performs exceptionally well in greenhouses and also grows reliably outdoors in pots in warm, sheltered conditions.

Key Features

Capsicum frutescens hot chilli pepper

Compact plant habit — ideal for pots and patio containers

Produces 75+ downward-facing fruits per plant

Fruits ripen from bright green to red

Hot heat level — around 20,000 SHU

Average fruit size 5–6 × 1 cm

Early maturity

Excellent for greenhouse growing or outdoor pots

How to Grow Chilli Pepper ‘Pikito’

Sow seeds indoors from January to March using a heated propagator or warm windowsill. Maintain temperatures of 20–25°C for reliable germination. Sow thinly and cover lightly with compost.

Transplant seedlings into individual pots once large enough to handle. Plants are best finished in 12 cm pots for compact growth, or potted on into larger containers for extended harvesting.

Grow in a greenhouse or place outdoors in a warm, sheltered position once all risk of frost has passed. Water regularly and feed weekly with a balanced or high-potash fertiliser once flowering begins.

Harvest fruits when fully red for the best heat and flavour.

⚠️ Handling advice: Chillies are hot. Wash hands thoroughly after handling fruits and avoid touching eyes or skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

How hot is Pikito?
Pikito reaches around 20,000 SHU, offering a medium-hot heat suitable for frequent cooking.

Is Pikito suitable for container growing?
Yes — its compact habit makes it ideal for patio pots, balconies, and small spaces.

Does Pikito need support?
No — the compact plants generally do not require staking.

Can it be grown outdoors in the UK?
Yes. It performs well outdoors in pots during warm summers, though a greenhouse gives the most reliable yields.

What is it best used for?
Excellent sliced into hot salads, chopped into stir-fries, or added to Asian-style dishes.