Anaheim Pepper
Capsicum annuum
Overview
The Mild Chili Workhorse
The Anaheim pepper is one of the most widely cultivated mild chilis in North America, named for the California city where it was first commercially grown. Its heat level is famously mellow, typically ranging from 500 to 2,500 Scoville Heat Units (SHU), often placing it just above a bell pepper in terms of heat. It is characterized by long, curved fruit that matures from green to a deep red, measuring 6 to 10 inches in length.
Anaheims have a beautiful, slightly sweet, and earthy flavor when green, which deepens significantly when roasted. This pepper is highly valued in the kitchen for its substantial walls and excellent flavor when cooked, making it an essential ingredient for chiles rellenos.
A Versatile Culinary Star
This pepper is remarkably versatile, being perfect for use fresh, roasted, canned, or dried. The large cavity makes it a superior choice for stuffing compared to smaller, thinner-walled peppers.
General Grow Information
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| SHU Rating (Scoville) | 500 – 2,500 |
| Use | Roasting, Stuffing |
| Plant Height | 24-36 in |
| Plant Spacing | 18 in |
| Row Spacing | 30 in |
| Sunlight Needs | Full Sun (6+ hours) |
| Sprouting Time | 7-14 days |
📜 Plant Folklore & Mythology
Discover the history and lore associated with Anaheim Pepper:
- Chili Pepper: Love, Lust, and Fidelity
- Chili Pepper: Spiritual Cleansing and Sacrifice
- Chili Pepper: Warding Off the Evil Eye
- Chili Pepper: Pepper as Punishment
- Chili Pepper: From the Gods' Garden
- Chili Pepper: The Divine Fire
- Chili Pepper: Trials of the Tongue
Interested in plant mythology and cultural history? Explore our full Folklore Index
Plant Care and Cultivation
- Support Heavy Branches: While the plant is compact, a heavy yield of long peppers can cause branches to snap. Use short stakes or tomato cages for support, particularly when the fruit begins to mature.
- Deep, Even Watering: Maintain consistent moisture, especially when the fruit is setting. Deep watering encourages deep root growth, which helps the plant withstand heat and prevents blossom end rot.
- Harvesting Green: For the classic Anaheim flavor and use in dishes like *chiles rellenos*, harvest when the pepper is firm and fully sized, but still green. This encourages the plant to produce more flowers and peppers.
- Red Peppers (Colorado Chiles): If you want to dry the peppers or use them for a richer flavor, allow them to fully ripen to red. When dried, they are known as *chile colorado* and are used to make mild red chili powder.