The Jalapeno Goliath, a remarkable chilli variety originating from Mexico, is celebrated globally for its robust flavour and heat. Named after the town of Xalapa, these peppers boast a conical shape, 7 to 10 cm in length, transitioning from medium to dark green to a vibrant red when ripe. With a height of around 70 cm in pots, these plants thrive even more when planted in the ground. Notably, they excel in producing delightful Jalapeno Poppers.
Jalapeno Hercules, a fiery Capsicum annuum variety, traces its roots to Mexico, specifically named after the town of Xalapa. Recognized globally, it’s renowned for its deep burn, light jalapeno flavour, and notable sweetness. The pods, initially dark green, evolve into a vibrant red upon ripening. Reaching 80 cm in pots, the plant thrives even more when planted directly in the ground.
Jalapenona, a fiery delight originating from the Capsicum annuum species, boasts a robust production of thick, juicy pods. These peppers exhibit the classic Jalapeno flavour, with a sweet undertone. The plant, reaching 70 cm in pots and more expansive when grounded, promises abundant harvests.
The Japanese Lantern Chilli, a remarkable Capsicum annuum variety, stands at just 30 cm, adorned with vibrant round pods. Known for its stunning colour transformation from creamy white to fiery red, it’s an ideal choice for compact spaces like balconies or verandas. This chilli adds a burst of colour and spice to your garden, making it a fantastic option for both aesthetics and culinary delight.
Hailing from Spain, Jeromin Chilli dazzles with its delectable flavour and vibrant appearance. Known for its robust production, these chillies boast a delightful sweetness with a subtle tang, devoid of any overpowering capsicum taste. Their pod shape is elongated, measuring approximately 14-15 cm in length and 2 cm in width.
Originating from the picturesque Darjeeling region of the Himalayas in India, Kushani Darjeeling Chilli is renowned for its prolific yield and vibrant appearance. This variety boasts a bushy, dense growth reaching approximately 50 cm in height, adorned with pods transitioning from pale green to striking red.
Lal Mirch Chilli, also known as Capsicum annuum, hails from India and is renowned for its prolific production of vibrant red pods. Its taste profile is marked by a subtly sweet smoked flavour, making it a versatile ingredient in Indian cuisine.
Originally hailing from Leutschau in Slovakia, this delightful pepper found its way to Matufred, Hungary, in the early 1800s. The Leutschauer Paprika is renowned for its prolific production and ease of cultivation. Its pods, transitioning from green to vibrant red, are perfect for drying into premium hot paprika powder, boasting a distinctive flavour and aroma.
The Lilac Cayenne chilli, a remarkable variety of Capsicum annuum, boasts stunning foliage with purple-tinged veins. Renowned for its prolific pod production, its pods transition from green to dark purple to fiery red upon maturity. This chili is highly sought after for its use in making cayenne powder and adding a fresh zing to culinary dishes.
Hailing from Indonesia’s Lombok Island, the Lombok chili, or Capsicum Annuum, is renowned for its exceptional flavour and prolific production. Its pods, measuring up to 15 cm in length and 2 cm in width, adorn a plant that grows to just under a meter in pots, thriving even more when planted directly in the ground.
Long Dari 35, originating from Korea, is a prized find for enthusiasts of rare chilli varieties. Known for its distinctive pod shape resembling ‘long legs,’ it boasts a unique flavour and manageable heat level. This gem was graciously shared by a close friend residing in Korea.
The Madre Vieja Chilli, renowned for its prolific yields, hails from southwestern Guatemala, named after the Madre Vieja river. With compact growth, it thrives in pots, reaching 80-90 cm. Initially light green, its pods ripen to a warm yellow hue, perfect for crafting delectable sauces or powder. This variety offers a unique flavour reminiscent of grapefruit, coupled with an upper mid-level heat, making it a distinct choice for chilli enthusiasts.
The Malawi Birds Eye Chilli, also known as Piri Piri or the African Birds Eye, originates from Malawi in southeast Africa. This variety, Capsicum Frutescens, is renowned for its prolific production of small, fiery red pods. The plant, growing to around 50-60 cm in height, boasts a bushy appearance, with its pods transitioning from green to vibrant red when fully ripe.
The Malawi Piquante Pepper, also known as Peppadew, emerged in South Africa in 1993. Recognized for its role in culinary delight, it resembles a fusion of mini capsicum and cherry tomato. Renowned for its prolific yield and versatility, it’s a prized choice for pickling enthusiasts.
Originally hailing from Mexico, the Manzano Orange chilli now flourishes across South America, known by various names like Locoto in Bolivia and Rocoto in Peru. Its name, “Manzano,” meaning apple, aptly describes its resemblance to an apple tree and its pod’s apple-like appearance and consistency. This chilli boasts unique characteristics within the Pubescens species.
Hailing from the lush landscapes of Assam in Northeast India, the Mem Jolokia is a true marvel. This variety boasts prolific yields, bearing upright pods that transition from a gentle green hue to a vibrant red.
Hailing from the quaint village of Malahi near Mettupalayam in Tamil Nadu, India, the Mettupalayam Chilli emerges as a gem among peppers. Renowned for its bountiful harvests, this plant produces pods that transition from verdant green to a vibrant red hue. Its slender, elongated shape, measuring approximately 6-7 cm in length and 1 cm in width, distinguishes it in the world of chillies. Notably, when dried, it exudes a remarkable sweet, smoky flavour, making it a prized addition to culinary creations.
Monkey Face Red chilli peppers, renowned for their unique appearance and delightful flavour, are esteemed producers. With pods resembling a monkey’s face, these peppers offer a sweet taste with a hint of apple, culminating in a vibrant red hue upon ripening.
Hailing from Mexico, the Mulato Isleño Chilli is renowned for its integral role in traditional Mexican cuisine, particularly in the iconic Mole sauce. With a distinctive tapered pod shape, it transitions from vibrant green to a rich chocolate brown upon maturity, boasting a delectable sweet and smoky flavour.
The Multicoloured Bhut Chilli, a variant of the famous Ghost Pepper from Northeast India, dazzles with its striking mix of green, purple, orange, and red hues. Belonging to the Capsicum chinense species, it thrives in hot, humid climates and is as ornamental as it is fiery. Whether used fresh, dried, or blended into hot sauces, curries, pickles, and marinades, its versatility and vibrant colour make it a favourite for those seeking bold, unforgettable spice.
Originating from the depths of the Amazon Rainforest in South America, Murici Chilli boasts unique qualities that set it apart. This exceptional variety is renowned for its prolific pod production, compact stature reaching 60-70 cm, and striking appearance. The cone-shaped pods, maturing into a vibrant yellow hue, are not just visually appealing but also offer a distinct flavour profile.
The Orange Fish Pepper, a Caribbean native, was introduced to the United States for its culinary versatility. Named for its use in seasoning fish, it boasts variegated leaves and striped peppers that transition from creamy white with green stripes to vibrant orange.
The Padron Pepper, also known as Pimientos de Padrón, originated in Spain during the 16th century. Brought by monks from South America, it thrived in the Padron region, becoming a staple. Known for its prolific pod production, the pepper yields 7 cm long and 3 cm wide pods.
Renowned for its presence in Italian cuisine, the Peperoncino chilli boasts a rich history dating back to 1694. Traditionally used in dishes like ‘Salsa ala Spagnola’, it pairs well with tomatoes, onions, and oil. With its slender, ribbed pods transitioning from green to vibrant red upon maturity, this mild chilli offers a sweet capsicum flavour, making it ideal for pickling.
Pequin Chilli, also known as Pequin Pepper or Chile Pequin, originates from Mexico. Renowned for its potency, it’s nearly 10 times hotter than a jalapeno. Despite its diminutive size, it packs a fiery punch, maturing from green to a vibrant red or red-orange. Drying transforms its hue to a rich brownish-red.
Piment D’Espelette, hailing from the Basque region of France, is renowned for its mildness and fruity flavour. Named after the village of Espelette, it’s celebrated during the annual Chilli Festival. The pods, initially green, mature into a vibrant dark red.
Pimenta Barra do Ribeiro, a remarkable Brazilian chilli variety, boasts a stunning transition in color from creamy white with a purple tinge to purple, orange, and finally red. Its beauty is matched by its prolific yield, with pods measuring 2.5 cm high x 2.0 cm wide.
Pimenta Cambuci, originating from Brazil, is a captivating member of the Capsicum Baccatum species. Resembling the Bishop Crown, its pods boast a robust, apple-like crunch, making it an exceptional addition to salads, stuffing, or paired with cheese.
Originally from Asia, the Po Chong chilli, a variety of Capsicum Annuum, is renowned for its prolific production. Its 6-7 cm pods, initially green and ripening to red, boast a distinct capsicum apple-like flavour. These bushy plants, reaching about 50 cm in pots, are early producers, making them popular among chilli enthusiasts.
The Poblano Chilli, originating from Mexico’s Puebla state, is renowned for its versatility. It starts as a dark purplish-green pod, maturing into a vibrant red. This mild pepper transforms into the Ancho Chilli when dried.
Originating from Thailand, the Prik Kee Noo Suan, also known as “Mouse Shit Chilli,” is a prolific producer of fiery pods. These tiny peppers start green and ripen to a vibrant red, boasting intense heat and a compact plant structure.
Hailing from undisclosed origins, the Pumpkin Cili Pepper is a rare gem, generously shared by Sydney’s own chilli connoisseur, Alice Lennard. This delightful variety boasts petite yet vibrant pumpkin-shaped pods, ranging from a luscious deep purple to a fiery red upon ripening.
