Thai Hot Chili Pepper
Capsicum frutescens
Overview
Small Size, Serious Heat
The Thai Hot chili pepper is a compact, highly ornamental, and intensely hot variety, essential for creating authentic Southeast Asian flavors. Despite their tiny size—often less than an inch long—these peppers pack a significant punch, typically ranging between 50,000 and 100,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). This places them squarely in the high-heat category, significantly hotter than a Jalapeño.
The plants themselves are generally small, bushy, and ideal for container gardening, making them perfect for patios and small spaces. They are exceptionally prolific, often covered in dozens of peppers that grow upright, providing a beautiful display as the fruit matures from green to brilliant red.
The Power of the Pod
In addition to fresh use, the thin walls of the Thai Hot pepper make it perfect for rapid drying. They are primarily used in curries, stir-fries, and as the base for vibrant chili pastes.
General Grow Information
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| SHU Rating (Scoville) | 50,000 – 100,000 |
| Growth Habit | Erect, Small fruit |
| Plant Height | 18-24 in |
| Plant Spacing | 12-18 in |
| Row Spacing | 24 in |
| Sunlight Needs | Full Sun (8+ hours) |
| Sprouting Time | 7-14 days |
📜 Plant Folklore & Mythology
Discover the history and lore associated with Thai Hot Chili Pepper:
- Chili Pepper: Love, Lust, and Fidelity
- Chili Pepper: Spiritual Cleansing and Sacrifice
- Chili Pepper: Warding Off the Evil Eye
- Chili Pepper: Pepper as Punishment
- Chili Pepper: From the Gods' Garden
- Chili Pepper: The Divine Fire
- Chili Pepper: Trials of the Tongue
Interested in plant mythology and cultural history? Explore our full Folklore Index
Plant Care and Cultivation
- Excellent for Containers: Due to their compact size, Thai Hot peppers are perfectly suited for growing in large pots (5-gallon size or more). This allows you to bring the plant indoors if frost threatens, extending the harvest.
- Soil Quality: Use a rich, loamy, well-draining soil mix. To achieve maximum heat, avoid excessive watering during the fruit maturation stage.
- Harvest When Red: For the most intense heat and classic flavor, harvest only when the peppers have fully matured and turned a deep, vibrant red. They can be picked in clusters or individually.
- Pinching Back: When the plant is young, pinching back the central growing tip can encourage a bushier, stronger structure, which helps support the huge volume of fruit the plant will produce.
Handling and Safety
Due to the high Scoville rating, always wear gloves when handling Thai Hot Chili Peppers and avoid touching your eyes. The capsaicin oil can cause severe irritation.