Capsicum annuum var. glabriusculum (Chile Petin)

Synonyms: Capsicum annuum var. aviculare.  Chile Petin (also sometimes called Chile Pequin) is our perennial native pepper. Do not let the small pepper size fool you – they are definitely on the hotter side (slightly hotter than a cayenne pepper). Birds, particularly mockingbirds, like the peppers. The plant may die to the ground in the winter but comes back in the spring. If the peppers are not harvested, they will re-seed as well. Chile Petin is drought tolerant, although it appreciates occasional watering in the summer. It needs good drainage. Chile Petin looks best in the garden if planted en masse, or interplanted with other perennials or grasses.   AT A GLANCE Texas native Yes Water use Low Sun exposure Sun to shade Bloom color White Bloom time Spring, summer Mature height 2-3 ft Mature spread 2-3 ft Attracts Birds Edible Yes, peppers Deer resistant Yes Notes Needs good drainage.   DISTRIBUTION MAPS  USDA MAP BONAP MAP  Present in state  Present in county and native  Native to North America, but adventive & escaped in state           Not present in state  Present and rare, native in county  Previously present, now extinct  Questionable presence (cross-hatched, regardless of color)