Chillies packed with heat and just enough sweet!
Editor at large Ian Hodgson’s pick of the best chilli plants that boast a delicious punch
‘Chocolate Habanero’
Originating from Jamaica, ‘Chocolate Habanero’, also known as ‘Congo Black’, is fiercely hot, sporting a rating of 300400,000 SHU (Scoville Heat Units). Fruits ripen from August to October, starting emerald green and turning to chocolate brown, with a rich, smoky flavour.
Price: £3.99/10 seeds From: www.suttons.co.uk; tel: 0844 736 4208.
‘Mardi Gras’
This attractive, compact variety produces substantial crops of fiery, elongated, slender chillies, which ripen to shades of peach and orange. It can be grown outdoors in a warm, sheltered spot in a pot, as well as indoors under glass.
Price: £3.05/20 seeds From: www.mrfothergills.com; tel: 0333 777 3936.
‘Odyssey’
The decorative, rounded peppers of this compact, spreading variety ripen to a dark purple. Although small, the fruits are packed with a nicely balanced heat. Ideal for a summer patio pot and being grown indoors.
Price: £3.05/20 seeds From: www.mrfothergills.com; tel: 0333 777 3936.