The NuMex Pumpkin Spice pepper was developed by New Mexico State University (hence the ‘NuMex’ in the name) in 1995, along with two other “spice”-branded chilies (the NuMex Lemon Spice and NuMex Orange Spice.) These striking 2.5-inch long fruits transition from a fresh green to a beautiful pumpkin orange as they ripen, making them not only tasty but also a visually appealing choice for gardens. The NuMex Pumpkin averages around 22,500 Scoville heat units and has a slightly sweet, earthy, and fruity profile. They shine in fresh salsas, pickled dishes, or simply as a zesty addition to various recipes, making them a versatile ingredient for any kitchen.
NuMex Pumpkin Spice fast facts
| Scoville heat units (SHU) | 20,000 – 25,000 |
| Median heat (SHU) | 22,500 |
| Jalapeño reference point | 2 to 10 times hotter |
| Capsicum species | Annuum |
| Origin | United States |
| Use | Culinary |
| Size | Approximately 2.5 inches long, conical in shape (like a jalapeño) |
| Flavor | Sweet, Earthy, Fruity |
Origins
The NuMex Pumpkin Spice pepper was developed in 1995 by the Chile Pepper Breeding Program at New Mexico State University (NuMex), as part of an initiative to create more colorful jalapeño varieties. This particular pepper is the result of a hybridization between the Permagreen bell pepper (an always green hybrid) and the Early Jalapeno (labeled as such because its fruits reached maturity earlier in the season.)
The creation of the NuMex Pumpkin Spice pepper was part of a broader effort that also produced the NuMex Lemon Spice and NuMex Orange Spice peppers. These three varieties were selected for their distinct mature fruit colors — yellow, orange, and pumpkin orange, respectively.
These “spice” branded chilies reflect a growing consumer preference for visually appealing produce, which has become increasingly important in farmer’s markets and grocery stores. The NuMex Pumpkin Spice pepper not only provides an attractive option for growers but also contributes to the diversity of jalapeño varieties available to spicy eaters.
How hot are NuMex Pumpkin Spice peppers?
While this chili is related to the jalapeño, don’t expect jalapeño-level spiciness. It packs a much larger punch. The NuMex Pumpkin Spice ranges from 20,000 to 25,000 Scoville heat units (SHU), placing them firmly in the medium-heat category. That’s much hotter than a common jalapeño pepper (2,500 to 8,000 SHU), ranging two to ten times hotter. It’s more similar to a serrano chili (10,000 to 23,000 SHU), but the NuMex Pumpkin Spice’s median heat range exceeds that of the serrano as well (16,500 vs. 22,500 SHU).
A good way to think of the NuMex Pumpkin Spice’s overall spiciness is as a middle-zone between a jalapeño and a lower-heat cayenne (30,000 to 50,000 SHU.) This is a very eatable zone, so you’ll find plenty of use cases for this chili in the kitchen.
What do they look like and taste like?
NuMex Pumpkin Spice peppers are visually striking with their vibrant pumpkin orange color, but their shape is as you’d expect from a jalapeño hybrid. They look very much like a jalapeño. The peppers are elongated and conical in shape, tapering to a rounded tip and averaging roughly 2.5 inches long. They mature from green to the orangish hue by which they get their name.
In terms of flavor, the NuMex Pumpkin Spice ages into a semi-sweet, earthy, and fruity flavor profile when they hit maturity (their orange color.) There’s a bit more flavor depth here than what you get from a red jalapeño, which tends to provide a garden-fresh sweetness without the earthy undertones.
Uses
Pumpkin Spice chilies are just as versatile in the kitchen as jalapeños. They can be chopped and incorporated into fresh salsas, blended into hot sauces and marinades, or diced for dips and guacamole. These peppers also shine when cooked, as they can be added to stews, soups, and chilis, or used as a flavorful filling in dishes like tamales. Additionally, they can be pickled for extended use as a condiment and layered in sandwiches, burgers, and hot dogs to give some extra heat, sweetness, and zing.
In terms of pairings, NuMex Pumpkin Spice peppers complement a wide range of ingredients. They work well with various cheeses, such as cream cheese, feta, Swiss, and cheddar, and can enhance the taste of meats including pork, beef, poultry, and fish. The peppers also pair nicely with fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, onions, garlic, potatoes, mango, kiwi, pineapple, and cilantro. They’re highly adaptable, just like a jalapeño (just with more flavor depth), so feel free to experiment with ingredient pairings.
Growing NuMex Pumpkin Spice
These chilies are well-suited for growth in regions with warm climates, but they can grow in any region that can support growing jalapeños. NuMex Pumpkin Spice peppers are typically available for harvest in late summer through fall.
Last update on 2025-01-24. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
To start, select a sunny location in your garden, as these peppers thrive in full sunlight. Ideally, they should receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter, so consider amending it with compost or well-rotted manure before planting to ensure your plants have the nutrients they need.
- Sunlight: Full sun (6-8 hours daily)
- Soil: Well-draining, nutrient-rich soil
- Planting Depth: About 1/4 inch for seeds; transplant seedlings after frost
- Spacing: 18-24 inches apart
- Watering: Regularly, ensuring not to over-water
- Fertilization: Balanced fertilizer every few weeks
- Harvest Time: Typically ready for harvest in late summer to fall, when they ripen from green to pumpkin orange
When planting, you can start seeds indoors about 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Transplant the seedlings outdoors once the soil temperature reaches at least 65°F and the risk of frost has passed. Space the plants about 18 to 24 inches apart to allow for their growth. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells, but be careful not to over-water, as this can lead to root rot. Fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks can promote healthy growth and fruit production.
Must-read related posts
- The Hot Pepper List: We profile 170+ chilies (and growing!) Search them by name, heat, flavor, and more.
- Red Jalapeños Vs. Green: How does color change the eating experience?
- The NuMex Big Jim Guide: Meet one of the largest chilies around.