Maui Purple Peppers, a rare and unique pepper native to the rainforests of Maui, have long been unavailable for commercial cultivation on the island. However, after a year of dedicated research and development, Paia Spice Co. is proud to be the first to cultivate these exceptional peppers on Maui. Believed to be the only indigenous pepper species in the State of Hawaii, Maui Purple Peppers offer a distinctive culinary experience.

The pepper’s fruit undergoes three distinct color transformations during its growth. It first appears as a striking deep purple, a stage in which many enthusiasts consider it to have the most desirable flavor, accompanied by a moderate heat. As the pepper ripens, it briefly turns green before reaching its final, vibrant red stage. The heat intensifies throughout this process, reaching an estimated 70,000-90,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU) at full maturity.

Due to its rainforest origins, the Maui Purple Pepper requires more water than typical pepper varieties. At Paia Spice Co., we ensure the soil remains consistently moist, maintaining irrigation even after substantial rainfall. The plants, which grow to a height of 2 to 3 feet, are robust and prolific producers.

At Paia Spice Co., we take great care in selecting only the finest peppers for seed production. Unlike some producers who reserve only unsellable peppers for seeds, we meticulously handpick and hand-seed our peppers, ensuring that the seeds you purchase receive the same careful attention as those we use for our own crops.

While some mainland producers may offer “Maui Purple” peppers, the authenticity and quality of these products cannot be guaranteed. When you purchase from Paia Spice Co., you are assured of receiving genuine Maui Purple Peppers, grown and harvested on Maui.

For those growing Maui Purple Peppers on the mainland, we recommend starting seeds indoors and transplanting them outdoors once the risk of frost has passed. These peppers thrive in direct sunlight, provided they are adequately watered.