Capsicum pubescens

Capsicum pubescens

Capsicum pubescens
familia	Solanaceae
genus	Capsicum
subfamilia	{{{subfamilia}}}
species	C. pubescens
binomial	Capsicum pubescens
binomial_authority	Ruiz & Pav.
unranked_ordo	Asterids
unranked_classis	Eudicots
ordo	Solanales
regnum	Plantae

Capsicum pubescens, commonly known as the Rocoto pepper, is a species of chili pepper native to the Andean region of South America. It is a member of the Solanaceae family, which also includes tomatoes, potatoes, and other peppers. Rocoto peppers are known for their distinctive hairy leaves and black seeds.

Description

The Rocoto pepper plant is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 2 meters in height. It has large, dark green leaves covered in fine hairs, giving it a fuzzy appearance. The flowers are white or purple and are followed by small, round fruits that ripen to various colors, including red, yellow, orange, and purple. The fruits are typically 3-5 centimeters in diameter and have a thick flesh and a spicy flavor.

Culinary Uses

Rocoto peppers are widely used in traditional Andean cuisine, particularly in Peru and Bolivia. The peppers are known for their intense heat, which ranges from 30,000 to 100,000 Scoville heat units (SHU). Despite their heat, Rocoto peppers also have a fruity and slightly sweet flavor, making them a popular choice for salsas, hot sauces, and stews.

In Peru, Rocoto peppers are a key ingredient in the famous dish called Rocoto Relleno. The peppers are stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, onions, garlic, and spices, then baked until tender. Rocoto Relleno is often served with a side of potatoes and cheese, creating a hearty and flavorful meal.

Cultivation

Capsicum pubescens is a relatively challenging pepper plant to grow, requiring specific conditions to thrive. It prefers a cool climate with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. The plant also requires well-drained soil and regular watering.

Rocoto peppers can be grown from seeds or propagated through cuttings. The seeds should be started indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date, as the plants have a long growing season. Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of leaves, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden.

Health Benefits

Like other chili peppers, Rocoto peppers contain capsaicin, a compound responsible for their spicy flavor. Capsaicin has been found to have several health benefits, including pain relief, improved digestion, and increased metabolism. It is also rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants.

However, it is important to note that Rocoto peppers are extremely hot and may cause discomfort or irritation for some individuals. It is recommended to handle them with caution and use them in moderation.