# Tabasco

Source: https://shop.homegrowngardenschicago.com/product/tobasco/
Published: 2024-02-29
Updated: 2026-04-01

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## **TABASCO PEPPER (*Capsicum frutescens*)**

**Transplant | Mid–Late May | Annual**

Tabasco peppers are a classic heirloom chili best known for their role in the famous hot sauce of the same name. These slender, upright peppers grow 1–2 inches long and ripen from pale green to vibrant yellow, orange, and finally bright red.

Unlike many peppers that hang downward, Tabasco peppers grow upright on the plant, creating a striking ornamental display while producing abundant harvests. The peppers deliver a sharp, clean heat with a bright tangy flavor, making them ideal for hot sauces, vinegars, and spicy cooking.

Highly productive and vigorous, Tabasco pepper plants produce clusters of fiery peppers throughout the warm growing season.

## Growing Details

**Spice Level:** Hot\
**Scoville Heat Units:** 30,000–50,000 SHU\
**Harvest:** Harvest when peppers turn bright red for the fullest flavor and heat\
**Plant Spacing:** 2 ft\
**Sun:** Full sun\
**Cold Tolerance:** Warm-season crop; plant after danger of frost

## Garden Companions

**Best planted with:**\
Basil, tomatoes, onions, carrots, oregano

**Benefits:**\
Companion plants attract beneficial insects and support healthy garden growth.

**Avoid planting near:**\
Fennel, which may inhibit pepper growth.

## Pro Growing Tips

• Allow peppers to fully ripen red for maximum heat and flavor\
• Upright peppers make harvesting easy and visible\
• Excellent for homemade hot sauces and infused vinegars\
• Warm soil and consistent sunlight promote vigorous plant growth

## Health Highlights

**Vitamin-rich peppers**\
Tabasco peppers provide vitamins A and C along with beneficial antioxidants.

**Capsaicin benefits**\
Capsaicin compounds may support metabolism and circulation.

**Antioxidant support**\
Colorful peppers contain beneficial plant compounds that support overall wellness.

*Pre-order now for productive summer transplants ready for planting after the last frost.*