Description

Species: Chinense, Extreme heat, Guinness

Belonging to the Capsicum Chinense family, the Carolina Reaper HP22B inherits traits from both Habanero and Naga Viper. Its hybrid nature contributes to the unique appearance and exceptional heat level.

Taste Profile

The Carolina Reaper delivers a taste experience of sweetness and fruity notes, provided you can distinguish them amid the extreme heat. Cooking with this pepper requires caution, as it tends to dominate the dish’s flavour. For an in-depth exploration of its taste, check out the chilli tasting video below.

Heat Level

Scoring a staggering 1,569,300 SHU on the Scoville scale, the Carolina Reaper stands as a true champion of extreme heat. Tongues may feel the sensation of being dipped in a deep-fryer, with heat radiating to the ears. Some may even experience hallucinations from the intensity.

Texture and Appearance

With pods ranging from light green to a vivid red, the Carolina Reaper showcases a stinger tail. The pods measure approximately 3-4 cm in width and length, displaying the hybrid’s unique traits, such as varying shapes and rope-like placenta in the BSR strain.

Size of Plant

In a pot, the Carolina Reaper plant reaches over a metre, growing even larger when planted in the ground. This sizable plant, indicative of its Capsicum Chinense heritage, produces abundant pods, emphasising its potency.

Culinary Uses

Utilise the Carolina Reaper to craft screamingly hot sauces or create insanely spicy chilli powder. Due to its overpowering heat, using this pepper in cooking requires a high spice tolerance. It’s advised to have a substantial meal beforehand to avoid stomach cramps when consuming the raw pepper.

Growing and Care

Growing Carolina Reapers demands careful attention. Ensure adequate spacing, and use two pairs of gloves when handling these fiery peppers. Avoid contact with the eyes, as the intense heat can cause discomfort. Despite challenges, cultivating these potent peppers can result in a rewarding harvest.

Fun Facts

• The Carolina Reaper HP22B is officially recognised by the Guinness World Records as the world’s hottest pepper.
• The chilli’s name, “Carolina Reaper,” reflects its fiery nature and its origin in South Carolina, USA.