Carolina Reaper Red is one of the best-known superhot chillies. It became famous for its extraordinary heat, but it also has a fruity flavour beneath the burn. The ripe fruits are red, wrinkled and often finish with a distinctive pointed tail. Their appearance is almost as striking as their reputation. Use tiny amounts in hot sauces, chilli pastes and fiery marinades. It is not a chilli to add casually to a meal! Carolina Reaper was developed in South Carolina by American breeder Ed Currie. It became widely known after Guinness World Records recognised it as the hottest chilli in 2013. That record has since been surpassed, but the Reaper remains an iconic superhot.
These plants need warmth, light and a long growing season. Start seeds early in a warm propagator, then grow them in a greenhouse or sheltered sunny spot. Handle the fruits carefully and keep them away from children and pets.
Quick facts
- Species: Capsicum chinense
- Origin: South Carolina, USA
- Flavour: Fruity, with extreme heat
- Fruit: Red, wrinkled pods, often with a pointed tail
- Growing habit: Warmth-loving plant suited to greenhouse growing
- Heat: Commonly reported around 1,400,000–2,200,000 SHU; individual fruits vary
- Heat rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥+
Looking for more superhot chillies?
Explore Carolina Reaper Yellow, Carolina Reaper Caramel, Big Mustard Mama and Apocalypse Naga Bhut for more serious heat and unusual fruit colours.
Ready to grow your own chillies?
Start with our Root Riot propagation cubes, propagator trays and chilli growing kits. They’re useful essentials for raising superhot varieties from seed.
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