Datil
Capsicum chinense — 100,000–300,000 SHU
The Datil is virtually unknown outside of St. Augustine, Florida — where it has been grown for over 300 years and is deeply embedded in local food culture. Similar in heat to Habanero but with a distinctly sweeter, more fruity flavour. If you can find the seeds, it's one of the most rewarding Chinense varieties to grow.
🔥 Heat Scale
🌱 How to Grow Datil
8+ hours daily. Florida-native — loves heat and humidity. A greenhouse extends the season significantly.
22–32°C ideal. More tolerant of humidity than many Chinense varieties — thrives in warm, humid conditions.
Consistent moisture — more tolerant of humidity than most Habanero-type peppers. Good drainage still essential.
15–20L pot. A compact, branching plant that produces good yields in containers.
High-potassium tomato feed from first flower. Feed weekly throughout the long fruiting period.
Worth overwintering — perennial plants fruit more heavily in year two.
🩺 Common Problems
Cause: Datil seeds are rare outside the USA
Fix: Seek specialist chilli seed suppliers — worth the effort for this unique variety
Cause: Temperature stress or inconsistent watering
Fix: Maintain stable conditions, avoid temperature swings
Cause: Thin-walled Chinense fruits don't store long
Fix: Harvest regularly, process into sauce or freeze promptly
Cause: Dry conditions — particularly indoors
Fix: Neem oil spray, increase humidity around plants
❓ Common Questions
What is a Datil pepper?
A unique Chinense variety grown exclusively in St. Augustine, Florida for centuries. Similar heat to Habanero (100,000–300,000 SHU) but sweeter and fruitier — used in local hot sauces and condiments.
Where does the Datil come from?
Its origins are debated — likely brought to St. Augustine from Cuba or the Canary Islands in the 18th century. It has been growing in the area for at least 300 years and is now considered a local cultural treasure.
Is Datil the same as Habanero?
They're the same species (Capsicum chinense) but distinct cultivars. Datil has a sweeter, more fruity flavour than orange Habanero, with slightly less heat at its upper range.
How do I use Datil peppers?
St. Augustine-style hot sauce is the classic use — sweet, fruity, and hot. Also excellent in marinades, fruit salsas, and Caribbean-inspired cooking. The sweetness balances beautifully with pineapple and mango.
