Big Jim is a legendary hot pepper variety known for producing the largest chili peppers in the world — up to 12 inches long — with a mild to medium heat and rich flavor. Perfect for roasting, stuffing, grilling, or making New Mexico-style green chili.

Quick Facts

• Botanical name: Capsicum annuum

• Common name: Big Jim Hot Pepper

• Plant type: Warm-season annual (tender perennial in zones 9–11)

• Scoville heat units (SHU): 2,500–5,000 (mild to medium)

• Days to maturity: 75–85 days from transplant

• Fruit size: 8–12 inches long

• Sun exposure: Full sun

• Hardiness zones: USDA 3–11 (grown as annual outside zones 9–11)

• Spacing: 18–24 inches apart

When to Plant

• Indoors: Start seeds 8–10 weeks before your last frost date.

• Outdoors: Transplant only when nighttime temps stay above 55°F (13°C).

• Germination time: 7–14 days at 75–85°F (24–29°C) — a heat mat is recommended.

How to Plant

1. Soil preparation: Fertile, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Ideal pH: 6.2–7.0.

2. Sowing depth: 1/4 inch deep.

3. Transplanting: Harden off before transplanting outdoors into warm soil.

4. Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.

5. Fertilizing: Use balanced fertilizer early; switch to low-nitrogen after flowering begins.

Growing Tips

• Stake plants to support heavy fruits.

• Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

• Remove the first few flowers to encourage stronger root development and bigger fruit sets.

• Pick frequently to encourage ongoing production.

Harvesting

• Harvest green for classic roasting or let them mature to red for full flavor.

• Use garden scissors or pruners to avoid damaging branches.

• Great fresh, frozen, or dried.

Culinary Use

• Ideal for stuffing (chile rellenos), roasting, grilling, or drying.

• Mild enough for those who prefer gentle heat but flavorful enough for chili lovers.

• Can be used green or fully ripened red.

Companion Plants

Grows well with onions, basil, carrots, and lettuce. Avoid planting near fennel or beans.

Why Grow Big Jim Peppers?

Big Jim offers huge, flavorful chilies on high-yielding plants. It’s perfect for home gardeners who want versatility in the kitchen — from stuffing and grilling to salsa and drying. Mild heat makes it approachable for nearly any palate.