Aji Lemon Drop
Capsicum baccatum — 15,000–30,000 SHU
Aji Lemon Drop (also called Aji Limon) is a Peruvian classic — producing small, teardrop-shaped, bright yellow fruits with an intensely fruity lemon-citrus aroma. One of the most popular Baccatum varieties for culinary use, its bright citrus flavour and moderate heat make it exceptional in ceviche, fresh salsas, and seafood. A staple of Peruvian cuisine and a favourite among chilli enthusiasts worldwide.
🔥 Heat Scale
🌱 How to Grow Aji Lemon Drop
8+ hours of direct sun daily. Strong light encourages aromatic compound production — the citrus aroma is significantly more intense in well-lit plants.
22–32°C is ideal. A South American native that performs best in warmth. In cooler climates, a greenhouse or polytunnel is strongly recommended.
Consistent moisture throughout the season. Drought stress can weaken the aromatic compounds that give this variety its famous citrus character.
15–20L minimum. A tall, vigorous Baccatum that needs space for its root system to develop fully and support a productive season of fruiting.
This is a tall plant — stake before fruiting begins. Multiple tie points are needed as the plant grows and fills with fruit clusters.
Strongly recommended for year-two productivity. Bring indoors before first frost, reduce watering, and keep at 10°C minimum. Year-two plants fruit far more prolifically.
🩺 Common Problems
Cause: Heat or drought stress reduces the aromatic compound production that gives this variety its distinctive citrus character.
Fix: Maintain stable growing conditions with consistent watering and good nutrition. Avoid temperature extremes during fruit development.
Cause: Requires 90–110 days of warm growing conditions — challenging in northern climates.
Fix: Start seeds in January with a heat mat. A greenhouse or polytunnel is strongly preferred for reliable ripening in the UK and northern Europe.
Cause: Hot, dry conditions favour spider mite infestations on leaf undersides.
Fix: Apply neem oil spray every 7–10 days. Increase humidity around plants. Inspect leaf undersides regularly and act early.
Cause: Temperatures below 18°C during fruiting can cause flowers and young fruits to drop.
Fix: Keep above 18°C during the fruiting period. Use a thermometer in the growing space and add heat if needed during cool nights.
❓ Common Questions
What does Aji Lemon Drop taste like?
Intensely lemony and fruity — the citrus aroma is strong enough to smell from a meter away when fruits are ripe. Heat is bright and clean, not lingering.
Is Aji Lemon Drop the same as Lemon Drop pepper?
Same variety — Aji Limon, Aji Amarillo Limon, and Lemon Drop are all names for this same Peruvian Baccatum.
How is it used in Peruvian cooking?
Essential in aji amarillo-style sauces and ceviche — the citrus complements raw fish perfectly. Also used in anticucho marinades and aji de gallina.
Can I substitute Aji Lemon Drop for regular lemon in recipes?
The citrus flavour is genuine but the heat makes it unsuitable as a direct replacement — use it to add citrus heat together, not as a lemon replacement.
