Candlelight mutant
What makes Candlelight mutant special
Candlelight mutant is a truly unique and decorative chilli variety with foliage rarely seen on other chilli plants. The widely varying leaves often have wavy, lobed shapes and unusual colour shifts – which makes every plant a living work of art. Together with colourful pods this is one of the most eye-catching varieties you can grow.
Background and name
Candlelight mutant is an unusual selection descended from the variety Candlelight, a decorative chilli known for its splendour of colour. Through natural crossing and mutation this variant has developed completely unique foliage and varying pod colour. It is especially valued by collectors and growers who look for the odd and unexpected.
Appearance and growth habit
The plant is low and compact, about 40–60 cm tall. The leaves are very special – often lobed, asymmetrical and with colour variations in green, white and sometimes purple. The pods are small, slim and upright, and ripen in a dazzling palette of colours: from purple to yellow, orange and red – often all at once on the same plant.
Estimated Scoville heat
Approx. 10,000 – 20,000 SHU
Flavour and uses of Candlelight mutant
The pods are fairly thin-fleshed but have a clear bite and a certain fruitiness. It is not bred primarily for flavour but for its ornamental value – yet works well as a spicy accent.
Ways to use Candlelight mutant
Dry and grind to colourful flakes, or pickle the pods for a decorative and hot addition to meals. The plant also makes an excellent windowsill decoration or leaving-present.
How to grow Candlelight mutant
Candlelight mutant belongs to Capsicum annuum and is sown between February and April. The variety does very well in a pot, window box or hanging basket. It is easy to grow, compact and gives a lovely return even in small spaces. A sunny spot gives the most colour and variety of form.
The price is for 6 chilli seeds
Sow in moist seed compost and keep warm, at about 25–30°C for best germination The compost should be moist but not wet. A propagator helps to keep the air humid. Once the seedlings have grown a little and developed their second pair of leaves, you can lower the temperature to about 20°C and take them out of the propagator. They do well on a sunny windowsill, in a greenhouse and outdoors in summer. For best results, soak the seeds in Growhelper for 12–24 hours before sowing.
