Explosive Ember – a colour-bursting ornamental with flavour
What makes Explosive Ember special
Explosive Ember is a chilli that really lives up to its name – the plant is a colourful firework display of purple, orange, red and black pods at the same time. But it is not just beautiful, it also offers a mild, pleasant heat.
Background and name
The variety was developed as an ornamental chilli in the USA but has gained international success thanks to its dramatic looks and surprisingly good flavour. It is a favourite for windowsill growing and flower boxes.
Appearance and growth habit
A compact plant, only 30–45 cm tall – but with strong splendour of colour. The leaves are dark purple, almost black. The pods are small, conical and grow upright. They ripen from dark purple to orange and then red.
Estimated Scoville heat
Approx. 25,000 – 30,000 SHU
Flavour and uses
A sweetish heat that sits on the skin. Mild to medium in strength – ideal for Asian dishes, chilli oils and pickles. Gives flavour without taking over.
Ways to use Explosive Ember
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Pick ripe pods and dry into colourful flakes
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Add to chilli mixes for contrast
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Perfect as pickles in small jars
How to grow Explosive Ember
Explosive Ember belongs to Capsicum annuum. Sow your chilli seeds between February and April. Very easy to grow, compact and free-flowering – perfect for beginners.
A chilli that explodes in colour and charm – grow it and be impressed.
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 inGrowhelper for 12–24 hours before sowing
