Growing Locoto: The Andean Pepper That’s Taking Gardens by Storm
If you’re looking to spice up your garden—literally—let me introduce you to one of South America’s best-kept secrets: the locoto pepper, scientifically known as Capsicum baccatum. This vibrant, flavorful pepper has been cultivating quite the following among adventurous gardeners who want something a little different in their vegetable plots.
What Exactly is Locoto?
Locoto is a pepper species that hails from the high-altitude regions of the Andes Mountains, where it’s been a culinary staple for centuries. Unlike your typical bell pepper or jalapeño, locoto brings both beauty and heat to the table. The name locoto is commonly used, though you might also see this plant simply referred to by its scientific name, Capsicum baccatum, in seed catalogs.
Where Does Locoto Come From?
This pepper is native to South America, particularly thriving in the mountainous regions of Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, and parts of Chile and Argentina. In its homeland, locoto grows as a perennial in the mild, high-altitude climate of the Andes, where it’s adapted to cool nights and warm, sunny days.
Why Grow Locoto in Your Garden?
There are several compelling reasons to consider adding locoto to your garden lineup:
- Unique aesthetic appeal: The plant produces stunning white flowers with bright yellow centers, followed by colorful, pendant-shaped peppers in shades of red, orange, or yellow
- Dual purpose: It’s both ornamental and edible, making it perfect for gardeners who like plants that work double duty
- Pollinator friendly: The attractive flowers draw bees and other beneficial pollinators to your garden
- Conversation starter: Most of your neighbors probably haven’t heard of locoto, making it an interesting talking point
Garden Design and Landscape Role
Locoto works wonderfully in several garden settings. In vegetable gardens, it adds vertical interest and color among more traditional crops. It’s also excellent for container gardening—perfect for patios, decks, or small-space gardens. The plants can grow quite tall (often 3-6 feet), so they work well as accent plants or even temporary screens.
For ornamental purposes, consider placing locoto in herb gardens or mixed borders where its colorful peppers can shine alongside flowers and foliage plants.
Growing Conditions and Care
Successfully growing locoto requires attention to its preferred conditions:
- Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours daily)
- Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil with good organic content
- Water: Consistent moisture without waterlogging
- Temperature: Warm growing season; sensitive to frost
USDA Hardiness Zones
Locoto is typically grown as an annual in USDA zones 3-11. In the warmer zones (10-11), it may survive as a short-lived perennial, especially if protected from any unexpected cold snaps.
Planting and Care Tips
Here’s how to get your locoto off to a great start:
- Start indoors: Begin seeds 8-10 weeks before your last expected frost date
- Transplant timing: Move seedlings outdoors only after soil has warmed and all danger of frost has passed
- Spacing: Plant 18-24 inches apart to allow for their eventual size
- Support: Provide stakes or cages as plants can become top-heavy with fruit
- Harvesting: Peppers are ready when they reach full color and size, typically 90-120 days from seed
A Note for Native Plant Enthusiasts
While locoto isn’t native to North America, it’s not considered invasive either. However, if you’re specifically focused on native gardening, consider exploring native alternatives like wild chiltepin (Capsicum annuum var. glabriusculum) in the southwestern United States, which offers similar ornamental and culinary benefits while supporting local ecosystems.
The Bottom Line
Locoto is an excellent choice for gardeners wanting to expand their horizons beyond typical garden vegetables. Its combination of ornamental beauty, pollinator benefits, and culinary potential makes it a worthwhile addition to diverse garden settings. Just remember to plan for its size and provide the warm, sunny conditions it craves, and you’ll be rewarded with a unique and productive plant that’s sure to be a garden highlight.
