Orange Habanero

Very Hot

Orange Habanero peppers are native to the Amazon and are among the most common habanero varieties. This heirloom produces thin-walled, lantern-shaped fruit measuring about 2 inches long, combining a recognizable habanero form with intensely fiery heat and a layered tropical flavor. Sweet fruitiness forms the foundation of its character, while bright citrus notes and a delicate floral quality add a lively, aromatic contrast. Subtle smokiness rounds out the profile, lending depth without overshadowing the sweeter, brighter notes. The result is a pepper valued for more than its powerful burn: tropical sweetness, floral citrus brightness, and light smoke give Orange Habanero a distinctive place in boldly flavored preparations. Hot sauces are an especially appealing use for this combination. Blended into a sauce, the pepper contributes a vibrant, fruit-forward character alongside pronounced heat, with citrus and floral notes adding complexity to the condiment. Its subtle smoky undertones provide another layer beneath the sweetness and spice. Marinades offer a different way to feature that flavor, bringing a zesty pepper component to the seasoning of a dish. Orange Habanero is also excellent for jams, where its sweet tropical character contrasts with fiery intensity. These sweet preparations highlight the pepper’s fruitiness while retaining the bold heat that defines its habanero identity. Rich glazes for grilled meats and seafood provide another strong culinary use, pairing the pepper’s tropical sweetness and citrus brightness with savory ingredients. In a glaze, its flavor becomes part of the dish rather than simply a spicy finishing accent, contributing a balance of sweetness, aromatic brightness, subtle smoke, and considerable heat. Whether featured in a vibrant hot sauce, incorporated into a zesty marinade, or used in jam or a rich glaze, Orange Habanero offers versatile culinary appeal for cooks who appreciate tropical pepper flavor as much as fiery spice. 

Heat level: 100,000 to 350,000 SHU

Plant height: 18 to 24 inches

Harvest: 100 to 110 days from transplant

25 seeds

Did you know? Humidity can reduce the viability of pepper seeds over time, causing seeds to stagnate. That’s why every seed pack includes a silica gel packet to help keep the seeds dry and fresh, and every order is shipped in a resealable plastic bag. Keep the bag sealed and store it in a cool, dark place until planting time. To save seeds for next year, place the seed packet and silica gel packet together in a quart-size freezer bag, seal it, and store it in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Allow bag to return to room temperature before breaking seal. 

Send your photos of this pepper variety or favorite recipe using this variety - and get free seeds!

Pepper photos: Please use photos on the Pequin pepper page as a guide. Submit one photo of your plant bearing fruit and another showing the pepper(s) in your hand. In return, you may choose any 2 seed varieties currently in stock. Bhut Jolokia excluded.

Recipes: Submit your favorite pepper-dish recipe along with a photo of the finished dish and choose any 2 seed varieties currently in stock. Submit an authentic ethnic recipe and receive 3 seed packs. Bhut Jolokia excluded.

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