Scientific Name: Capsicum annuum var. annuum

Common Names: Chilli 'Anaheim', California Chilli, Ortega Chilli, Magdelena

Family: Solanaceae

Origin

Heirloom Anaheim chillis were developed between 1894 and 1906 in Anaheim, California.  They were first grown in the Anaheim region by Emilio Ortega, a farmer who took seed from a strain of New Mexico chilli and bred them to grow better in Californian conditions. 

Culinary Uses

The Anaheim is a relatively mild chilli falling between 500 and 2000 units on the Scoville scale depending on growing conditions.   Anaheim peppers are milder than jalapenos.  They ripen from green to red, both stages are edible with the red chillis being slightly hotter.  New Mexico chillis from which this variety was developed were grown for canning and pickling, Anaheim chillis are great for preserving as well but can also be eaten fresh or made in sauces and salsa.  They also grow big enough to be stuffed and roasted.  The flavour of the Anaheim pepper is crisp, fruity and spicy and with a hint of sweetness and smokiness.  A very versatile chilli pepper.

Growing Tips

Prepare the growing bed by incorporating a good amount organic fertiliser or compost prior to sowing.  Don't over-fertilise mature plants or they'll grow excess leaves at the expense of fruit production.  Pinch out growing tips to encourage bushier growth with additional flower production.  Grow in free draining soil but keep plants well watered to ensure fruits fill out fully.  Stake plants as they grow to support the heavy weight of the peppers of this variety.  Pick chilli peppers regularly to encourage further flower production.

When To Sow

Sow Anaheim chilli seed all year around in subtropical and tropical regions of Australia.  In temperate regions of Australia sow from September to November for best results.

How To Sow

Sow Anaheim chilli seeds 6mm deep spacing plants about 45cm apart to allow plenty of room for growth.  Choose a planting site in full sun or light shade.

Time To Germination

Anaheim chilli seeds take between 12 and 24 days to germinate after sowing.

Time To Harvest

You'll be able to harvest your first Anaheim chilli peppers 10 to 12 weeks after sowing.