Cubanelle
Capsicum annuum
Also known asItalian frying pepper · Cuban pepper · Aji cubanela
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates. Strict on light; outside the DLI band, yields drop sharply.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 4–12 (winter low around -34°C)
- Frost
- frost sensitive (dies at first frost)
- Season
- warm (summer, frost-sensitive)
Growing systems
Root mass: moderate.
Growing media
| Medium | pH effect | Retention | Bacterial surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expanded clay pebbles (LECA) | neutral / inert | low | high |
| Coco coir (Coconut coir) | slightly acidic | high | moderate |
| Perlite (Expanded volcanic glass) | neutral / inert | very low | low |
| Rockwool (Mineral wool) | alkaline until pre-soaked | very high | low |
| Soil-based mix (Potting soil) | varies | high | high |
Nutrient demand by stage
NPK ratios are relative weights. EC targets shift through the plant's life.
| Stage | N | P | K | EC (mS/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| seedling | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1.2 |
| vegetative | 3 | 1 | 2 | 1.8 |
| flowering | 1 | 2 | 3 | 2.2 |
| fruiting | 1 | 2 | 3 | 2.4 |
Companion-growing notes
- Heavy uptake of potassium, calcium. Co-grown crops with the same demand will end up deficient even at "correct" EC.
Aquaponics suitability
Compatible
Fish waste provides enough nitrogen for healthy growth. Supplemental potassium, calcium, and iron may still be needed depending on fish stocking density.
Care notes
A productive hydroponic pepper for growers who cook Italian or Caribbean food. EC 2.0-2.8 mS/cm. pH 5.8-6.5. Temperature: 20–28°C. Moderate to high light (DLI 18-25 mol/m2/day). Plants are medium-sized (50–70 cm) and produce prolifically without the space requirements of larger pepper varieties. From transplant to first harvest: 60-70 days (green stage). Each plant yields 15-25 peppers over a season. The thin walls mean the peppers don't store as long as thick-walled bells, so plan to use or cook them within a week of harvest. For the classic fried pepper preparation: halve or slice, remove seeds, and fry in olive oil with garlic until softened and slightly charred. The sweetness intensifies with cooking. Calcium supplementation during fruiting prevents blossom end rot, though cubanelles are less prone to BER than thick-walled types. DWC, Dutch bucket, or drip systems all work well. A practical, high-yield pepper for cooks who use frying peppers regularly.