Carolina reaper

The Carolina Reaper is a red Capsicum chinense super-hot developed by Ed Currie in South Carolina and recognized by Guinness World Records for its extraordinary tested heat. Beyond the record, it is known for wrinkled pods, a frequent stinger-like tail and a surprisingly fruity, sweet aroma before the burn builds into extreme intensity.

Super-hotCapsicum chinenseRed

HEATSuper-hot

SCOVILLEGuinness-recognized testing reported an average around 1.64 million SHU with individual pods exceeding 2 million

SPECIESCapsicum chinense

MATURE COLORRed

FLAVOR & BURN

Flavor Profile

Fruity and sweet chinense aroma before an intense, building burn.

HEAT EVIDENCE

Heat & Scoville Context

Historically supported by laboratory testing used for Guinness World Records recognition

IDENTIFICATION

Pod & Phenotype

Wrinkled red pods frequently showing a pronounced pointed or stinger-like tail.

HISTORY & ORIGIN

Origin

Developed in South Carolina, USA.

Breeder / source: Ed Currie / PuckerButt Pepper Company

CULTIVATION

Growing Notes

Long-season super-hot. Start early and provide sustained warmth for ripening.

USES

Best Uses

Extreme hot sauces, powders, flakes and super-hot collections.

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