Pimenta de Neyde
Capsicum chinense x C. annuum (interspecific hybrid)
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 1.8-2.6 mS/cm. pH 5.8-6.8. Temperature: 21–30°C (Capsicum chinense-type; needs sustained warmth). High light (DLI 25-35 mol/m2/day; strong light and cool nights intensify the purple-black pigmentation). Plants are compact (40–60 cm) and exceptionally attractive in containers. From transplant to fruit: 90-120 days. Unlike most peppers, the fruit barely changes colour as it ripens, staying deep purple to near-black rather than turning red, so harvest by size and firmness and a slight softening rather than waiting for a colour change. Each plant produces 20-40 small peppers. The dark foliage and fruit make a striking statement in any system, and the deeply pigmented fruit produces visually unique hot sauces. Seed comes from specialty pepper suppliers and is less common than mainstream C. chinense types.