NuMex Suave
Capsicum chinense — 800–1,000 SHU
NuMex Suave ("Suave" = smooth/mild in Spanish) is a remarkable achievement — a Habanero that looks, smells, and tastes exactly like a Habanero but contains virtually no capsaicin. Developed by New Mexico State University, it produces the same fruity, tropical Chinense aroma without any of the burn. The perfect pepper for people who love Habanero flavour but can't tolerate the heat.
🔥 Heat Scale
🌱 How to Grow NuMex Suave
6–8 hours daily. Same care as standard Habanero — warm, sunny conditions produce the best aroma and flavour development.
20–28°C ideal. More forgiving than hot Habanero but still benefits from warmth for the full Chinense aroma to develop.
Consistent moisture throughout the season. Well-draining compost is essential to prevent waterlogging.
12–15L pot. A compact, manageable plant — ideal for patios and balconies where you want flavour without fire.
Tomato feed from first flower. Regular weekly feeding supports the productive fruiting period.
Worth overwintering for heavier year-two yields. Same process as regular Habanero — cut back and bring indoors.
🩺 Common Problems
Cause: Growing near hot Habaneros can reintroduce capsaicin genes in saved seeds
Fix: Grow in isolation if saving seeds. Current season fruits from this plant are always mild.
Cause: Same susceptibility as hot Habanero — temperature stress during flowering
Fix: Maintain stable conditions, avoid temperature swings above 35°C or below 15°C
Cause: Cool temperatures slow colour development from green to orange
Fix: Ensure adequate warmth — same care as any Habanero-type variety
Cause: Common on soft new growth and flower buds
Fix: Neem oil spray weekly, water jet to remove established colonies
❓ Common Questions
Does NuMex Suave really have no heat?
800–1,000 SHU — essentially zero. Even heat-sensitive individuals can eat it freely. Only the capsaicin was bred out; the full Chinense aroma remains.
Can I cook with it instead of Habanero?
Yes — same fruity tropical aroma, no burn. Perfect for children, heat-sensitive guests, or dishes where you want Habanero flavour without pain.
Who developed NuMex Suave?
New Mexico State University's Chile Pepper Institute — using traditional plant breeding to remove capsaicin while preserving the full aromatic profile. NuMex indicates NMSU origin.
If I save seeds, will they also be mild?
Yes, if grown in isolation. If cross-pollinated by hot Habaneros nearby, saved seeds may reintroduce capsaicin. This season's fruits are always mild regardless.
