MediumMexico/United States (rare variant)
Jalapeño Brown
Ultra-rare color variant that ripens to chocolate brown instead of red. Unique appearance with classic jalapeño flavor and slight smoky undertones. Nearly impossible to find - extreme rarity in pepper world.
Scoville Heat Units
2,500to6,500SHU
Flavor Notes
smoky undertonescomplexrichunique
Best Uses
specialty dishesunique salsacollectorsornamental edibleconversation piece
Cuisine Types
Mexicanspecialtymodern
Quick Facts
- Color
- Green to chocolate brown
- Availability
- extremely rare
- Season
- Summer-Fall
- Days to Maturity
- 76 days
- Plant Size
- Medium (24-28 inches)
Cook with Jalapeño Brown
Browse recipes featuring this pepper variety and similar heat levels.
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Bell Pepper
Frequently Asked Questions
Is brown jalapeño actually brown?
Yes! It ripens from green to a rich chocolate brown color instead of the typical red. This is an extremely rare genetic trait. The brown stage is fully mature - not diseased or overripe.
How does the flavor differ?
Brown jalapeños have a subtle smoky undertone not found in standard varieties, even when fresh. The flavor is complex with earthy notes. Heat level is similar to regular jalapeños.
Why is it so rare?
The brown-ripening trait is caused by specific recessive genes that are uncommon in pepper genetics. Very few breeders have worked with this trait in jalapeños, making it extremely difficult to find.