Description

A rainbow on a single plant. NuMex Twilight (Capsicum annuum) stacks color in stages, with small upright peppers shifting from deep purple to cream, yellow, orange, and finally red. Heat is lively and clean, typically 30,000 to 50,000 Scoville units, with a bright peppery snap that holds its own in the kitchen as well as the garden.

The plants are compact and striking, about 18 to 24 inches tall, with a densely branching, upright habit that loads every node with blossoms and fruit. Dark green foliage sets off tight clusters of conical pods held above the leaves. Pods average ¾ to 1½ inches, thin walled and fast drying, so the display lasts for weeks while still delivering useful harvests.

Bite into one and the heat arrives quickly, a sharp spark that builds to medium hot, then fades cleanly. Underneath the fire you will find citrus and green herb notes that turn slightly sweeter at full red. In the kitchen, mince fresh for salsas, noodle bowls, and stir fries, or dry for confetti like flakes that finish pizzas, grilled vegetables, and soups. The pods also pickle well, keeping their color and crunch.

Bred at New Mexico State University’s Chile Pepper Institute, NuMex Twilight was selected for patio worthy color and real culinary value. The variety continues the long story that began with Indigenous farmers who domesticated C. annuum in Mesoamerica, then traveled through centuries of seed stewardship to modern breeders and home gardeners. Grow it for a container sized color show, and for a steady supply of bright, medium hot peppers all season.