Capsicum chinense Germination 80% Packed for 2025 The Scotch Bonnet pepper is a variety of chili pepper known for its distinct fruity flavor and intense heat. It is commonly found in Caribbean cuisine and is a staple ingredient in dishes such as jerk chicken, hot sauces, and stews. Added to salsas, marinades, and raw dishes for heat and flavor. Often pickled or incorporated into hot sauces for long-term use. Seeds per packet ~ 25 Bonnet peppers, wear gloves to protect your skin from the capsaicin, and avoid touching your eyes or face. Our seeds were sourced from Caribbean Garden. Characteristics: The pepper has a squat, slightly wrinkled appearance, resembling a tam o' shanter hat (a traditional Scottish bonnet), which is where it gets its name. The peppers are typically about 1–2 inches in diameter. Scotch Bonnets change color as they ripen, transitioning from green to vibrant shades of yellow, orange, red, or sometimes even chocolate-brown, depending on the variety. They are extremely spicy, with a Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) rating between 100,000 and 350,000, similar to a habanero pepper. While hot, they also have a distinctive sweet, fruity, and tropical flavor, making them unique among chili peppers. Growing Requirements: These peppers thrive in warm, tropical climates and are sensitive to cold. They can be grown as perennials in frost-free zones or as annuals in cooler climates. They prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–6.8. Full sun exposure (6–8 hours daily) is essential for optimal growth and fruit production. Regular watering is necessary, but the soil should not be waterlogged.
