From which specific botanical family of peppers is cayenne pepper derived?
Answer
Capsicum annuum
Cayenne pepper is classified botanically as belonging to the Capsicum annuum family of peppers. This classification places it alongside many other common peppers but distinguishes it in terms of its specific chemical profile, including its concentration of capsaicin. Understanding its botanical origin helps explain why different pepper varieties, like jalapeños or habaneros, while also containing capsaicin, possess vastly different levels of pungency and therapeutic concentration compared to cayenne.
Related Questions
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