Evergreen – chilli seeds for an unusual, green-ripening and hot chilli
What makes Evergreen special
Evergreen is a really exciting and unusual chilli variety that breaks the rules – here green is the colour, even when the pod is ripe! This variety combines its unusual colour with a powerful heat that is reminiscent of habanero, making it a favourite for anyone looking for something unique in flavour and looks. A hot, intense chilli with an unusual ripening shade – perfect if you want to grow chilli with character.
Background and name
The name Evergreen refers to the variety’s most striking trait – that the pods stay green even when fully ripe. Unlike most chilli varieties that turn red, orange or yellow, Evergreen keeps its lush green throughout development. That makes it an interesting talking point in the garden or greenhouse and a fun addition in the kitchen.
Appearance and growth habit
The plant grows up to about 100 cm tall and is vigorous with slightly hairy foliage, which also makes it easy to recognise. The pods are medium-sized, elongated to slightly knobbly, and develop from light green to a deeper green shade when ripe. The plant produces heavily and does well in a larger pot and outdoors in a warm spot.
Estimated Scoville heat
Evergreen is a very hot chilli variety with an estimated Scoville strength of about 200,000–300,000 SHU – comparable to a Habanero. It should therefore be handled with care, especially in the kitchen or when processing large quantities.
Flavour and uses of Evergreen
Behind the intense heat lies a fruity and slightly herbal flavour profile with tangy touches. Evergreen is excellent in strong salsas, chilli mixes and hot sauces where you want a clear green colour and fresh flavour without compromising on strength. The colour also makes it stand out among other hot chilli sauces and pickles.
Ways to use Evergreen
Use Evergreen to make a green chilli sauce with a proper bite – perfect for tacos, grilled food or Asian dishes. The pods also freeze well whole, or can be dried and ground to a strong green chilli powder. Because of the strength it can be a good idea to wear gloves when handling. Try fermenting the pods too for an extra dimension of flavour!
How to grow Evergreen
Evergreen belongs to Capsicum chinense and therefore needs a long growing time. Sow your chilli seeds between January and March in seed compost indoors, with a heat mat or bottom heat. Use grow lights to get compact, strong plants. When the plant is stable and the temperature outdoors is above 10–12 degrees even at night, you can pot on into a large pot or a greenhouse. The variety needs a good supply of nutrients and even watering. A warm, sheltered spot gives the best harvest.
Evergreen is a chilli novelty for anyone looking for something different – an explosive heat in a green suit that compromises on neither flavour nor strength. A must for every chilli lover!
The price is for 6 seeds
Sow in moist seed compost or peat pellets 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
Watch ChiliAlex testing Evergreen from our Chilli Farm
