Pimenta de Neyde
Capsicum chinense
Also known asNeyde · Pimenta da Neyde · Black Brazilian
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates. Strict on light; outside the DLI band, yields drop sharply.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 9–13 (winter low around -7°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 specialty ornamental-edible pepper for growers who want visual drama alongside culinary use. EC 2.0-3.0 mS/cm. pH 5.5-6.5. Temperature: 24–32°C (C. chinense; requires sustained warmth). High light (DLI 18-28 mol/m2/day; strong light intensifies the purple-black pigmentation). Plants are compact (40–60 cm) and exceptionally attractive in containers. From transplant to fruit: 90-120 days. The dark foliage and fruit make a striking visual statement in any growing system. Harvest when fruit ripens to deep red (the purple stage is underripe and less flavorful). Each plant produces 20-40 small peppers. For hot sauce, the deep color of the combined purple leaves and red fruit produces a visually unique product. Seeds are available from specialty pepper seed suppliers; the variety is less commonly available than mainstream C. chinense types. A conversation piece crop that combines genuine beauty with genuine heat.