Shishito Pepper Seeds (Organic)

Shishito is an organic heirloom Japanese pepper (Capsicum annuum) that produces small, wrinkled, mild peppers about 2 to 4 inches long. Very prolific and easy to grow, the compact 18 inch plants are most often harvested green for roasting, grilling, or frying. Most peppers are mild, but every so often one surprises with a bit of heat.

At a glance

• Variety: Shishito, Capsicum annuum
• Type: Heirloom, organic, tender annual
• Days to maturity: 60 to 75 days
• Sun: Full sun
• Planting depth: 1/4 inch
• Spacing after thinning: 12 to 18 inches
• Height at maturity: 18 inches
• Approx. seeds per pack: 50

Best for

• Blistering in a hot skillet as an appetizer
• Grilling on skewers over an open fire
• Tempura and frying
• Containers, raised beds, and garden beds
• High yields from compact plants

How to grow

Start seeds 1/4 inch deep in warm soil around 75 to 85°F; germination takes 10 to 14 days. Transplant into full sun and nutrient-rich, well-draining soil, spacing plants 12 to 18 inches apart. Harvest peppers green at 2 to 4 inches for best flavor, or leave them to ripen red for a sweeter taste.

Flavor profile

Mild and smoky with a savory, slightly grassy note, turning sweeter if left to mature red. The occasional pepper carries a gentle kick, which is part of the fun.

About Grow Organic

Grow Organic supplies organic and non-GMO seeds, tools, and natural growing products for home gardeners and small farms.

Sold by Grow Organic, based in Grass Valley, California.