Lemon Drop – Capsicum baccatum

Plant description

Lemon Drop chilli, also known as Aji Limon, is a vibrant and highly productive Capsicum baccatum variety originating from Peru, where it has been cultivated for generations as part of traditional Andean cuisine. It is especially valued for its bright citrus-like flavour and consistent heat, making it one of the most distinctive and useful South American chillies.

The plant is vigorous and tall, often reaching 4–6 feet or more in ideal conditions, with an open, branching habit and excellent productivity. It produces abundant crops of slender, elongated pods, typically 5–8 cm long, which ripen from green to a bright, sunny yellow. The fruits are thin-walled and highly aromatic, delivering a medium heat level (around 15,000–30,000 SHU) combined with a sharp, lemony citrus flavour that is both fresh and fragrant. Lemon Drop is also known for its long cropping season and heavy yields, especially when grown in a greenhouse or polytunnel.

Heat level

3/10 — Lemon Drop come in at about 15,000 to 30,000 SHU; however, some do seem much hotter.

Growing instructions

Start Lemon Drop early by sowing seeds indoors from January to March, as Capsicum baccatum varieties benefit from a long growing season. Germinate using steady warmth and strong light to produce healthy seedlings, then pot on gradually into a nutrient-rich, free-draining compost, ideally with added perlite for strong root development. Once established in its final pot, begin feeding with a tomato fertiliser after around two weeks and continue regularly throughout the growing season. A minimum 15–20 litre pot is recommended, though larger containers will support the plant’s vigorous growth and high yields. Plants can grow tall and sprawling, so provide strong support using canes, strings, or trellis systems, especially under greenhouse conditions. Grow in a warm, sunny, sheltered position, water consistently without overwatering, and maintain good airflow to support continuous flowering and fruiting.

Preserving & Recipe Ideas

Lemon Drop chillies are excellent for preserving thanks to their thin walls and high flavour concentration. Drying in a dehydrator or air fryer on dehydrate mode produces bright, citrusy flakes or powder that retain their aromatic quality. They can also be frozen whole or chopped, or pickled for a tangy, vibrant preserve. Fermentation into chilli sauces is especially popular, producing bright, zesty hot sauces with a distinctive citrus character. In the kitchen, Lemon Drop is a standout ingredient in Peruvian and fusion cuisine, commonly used in ceviche, salsas, marinades, and seafood dishes. It pairs beautifully with fish, chicken, garlic, coriander, and lime, and its unique lemon-like aroma combined with clean medium heat makes it one of the most versatile and refreshing chillies to cook with.

About us

Here at Edible Ornamentals at the Chilli Ranch, we’re passionate about growing exceptional chilli plants and helping others succeed with them. Based in the UK, we specialise in producing high-quality, carefully selected varieties for home growers, enthusiasts, and artisan producers alike. Our focus is on flavour, performance, and reliability—so whether you’re growing on a windowsill or in a greenhouse, you can expect great results.

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Can we help?

Need chilli growing advice? Looking for specific varieties? Have other questions? Please get in touch. Email us at info@chillitour.co.uk, give us a call at 01480 405663, or just use the button below and drop us a message right here! We look forward to hearing from you.

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