Fresno
5,000 SHU · Capsicum annuum
MediumHeat range
2,500 to 10,000 SHU. Typical: 5,000 SHU.
Individual peppers vary within this range based on growing conditions, ripeness, and genetic variation. See the Scoville scale guide for why the range matters.
Flavor and character
Fresno has flavors of smoky, fruity when red, slightly sweet, medium heat.
The Fresno pepper is often confused with the jalapeño because they are similar in size and shape when green. The key difference emerges at maturity: Fresnos are typically sold red (fully ripe), with a fruitier, smokier flavor and slightly more heat than an average jalapeño. The walls are thinner than a jalapeño, making Fresnos less ideal for stuffing but better for salsas and hot sauces where you want them to break down during cooking. They are named after Fresno, California, where they were developed in the 1950s. Red Fresnos have become increasingly popular in restaurant cooking for their color and balanced heat-to-flavor ratio.
How it’s used
Fresno is commonly used in ceviche, hot sauces, salsas, pickling, stuffed peppers.
What to use instead
These substitutions match heat, not flavor. Flavor character changes substantially between peppers. For custom quantities, use the substitution calculator.
Compare with another pepper
Other peppers to explore
Frequently asked questions
How hot is Fresno compared to a jalapeño?
Fresno and jalapeños are in a similar heat range. Fresno at 5,000 SHU is roughly comparable to a jalapeño at 5,000 SHU.
What does Fresno taste like?
Fresno has flavors of smoky, fruity when red, slightly sweet, medium heat. Beyond the heat, these flavor notes distinguish it from other peppers at similar Scoville ratings.
Can I grow Fresno at home?
Yes. Fresno grows well in USDA zones 7+ and can be grown in containers in cooler zones. Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost. Full sun, moderate water, and well-drained soil produce the best results.
Is Fresno hotter than Hungarian Wax?
No. Hungarian Wax at 7,500 SHU typical is hotter than Fresno at 5,000 SHU. Compare them side by side on the comparison tool.
What's a good substitute for Fresno?
The closest substitutes are Jalapeño and Serrano. These share similar heat ranges and compatible flavor profiles. For exact quantity ratios, use the substitution calculator.
What is Fresno's Scoville rating?
Fresno ranges from 2,500 to 10,000 SHU, with a typical measurement of 5,000 SHU. This range reflects natural variation in capsaicin production due to growing conditions, ripeness, and genetics.