Description
Species: Capsicum chinense
Origin: Guadalupe
Heat: Level 5 – 350k SHU
Habanero Guadalupe Red is an attractive and productive Habanero variety, producing an abundance of small, rounded chillies with the intensely fruity aroma and fiery character associated with the Habanero family. Its distinctive flavour combines rich, tropical fruitiness with subtle smoky undertones, making it particularly appealing to growers who appreciate chillies with plenty of flavour as well as heat.
The fruits are approximately 2–4cm long, with a rounded, slightly irregular shape and gently wrinkled skin. Beginning green, they gradually develop their characteristic orange-red colour as they mature. Despite their relatively small size, these peppers deliver considerable pungency, balanced by the wonderfully aromatic qualities typical of Capsicum chinense varieties.
Habanero Guadalupe Red is particularly well suited to preparing homemade hot sauces, spicy marinades, pickles and Caribbean-style condiments. The ripe fruits can also be dried and ground into a richly flavoured chilli powder, bringing fruity warmth and depth to a wide variety of dishes.
Plants develop a vigorous, bushy growth habit, generally reaching 80–120cm in height under favourable conditions, although their final size will depend on climate, container size and growing environment. Attractive white flowers are followed by generous crops of small, rounded chillies. Fruit maturity is generally quoted at approximately 80–100 days in suitable growing conditions, with cooler UK temperatures potentially extending the ripening period.
For successful cultivation, sow indoors from January to March at 22–28°C, allowing approximately 7–21 days for germination. Early sowings benefit from supplementary lighting, while a heated propagator helps maintain consistent temperatures. Grow in fertile, free-draining compost, watering regularly without allowing the roots to become waterlogged.
As with many Capsicum chinense varieties, Habanero Guadalupe Red appreciates warmth, sunshine and a long growing season. A greenhouse or polytunnel is particularly beneficial in the UK, although plants can also be grown successfully in containers in a warm, sheltered position. Provide at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, preferably more, and move plants outdoors only after all risk of frost has passed.
Container-grown plants can be brought indoors as autumn temperatures fall, helping any remaining fruits reach maturity. Healthy plants may also be overwintered in a bright, frost-free position, ideally maintained above 15°C. Light pruning after harvesting and reduced watering during winter can help encourage fresh growth the following spring.
Chilli Seeds Qty is 5 per pack unless stated.
