Chiltepin: Species & Shape - Fiery Foods & Barbecue Central

Q: Dave,

I’ve been researching on the web the chiltepin pepper, and I get various conflicting information regarding this pepper. Could you clarify?

-What is the species for this pepper (I’ve seen both annum and frutescens applied)

-What is the shape of this pepper? (Have seen both the pointed and round types)

We are doing test plots here in Ecuador with both types and I want to be sure of the taxonomy.

Thanks,

Phillip

A: Hello Phillip:

The species is annuum. The shape is spherical. When pointed, this usually indicates a piquin rather than a chiltepin.

–Dave