Numex Centennial – Decorative Ornamental Chilli with Mild Heat
What Is Numex Centennial?
Numex Centennial is a striking combination of beauty and function. It was bred to be both decorative and useful in the kitchen, with lovely purple tones in the foliage, flowers and pods. Ideal for the windowsill, the balcony or as a splash of colour in the herb garden.
Background and Name
The Numex series is the result of extensive breeding programmes at New Mexico State University. Centennial was released in 1988 to mark the university’s 100th anniversary – hence the name. It is best known as an ornamental variety, but is fully edible and good to use.
Appearance and Growth Habit
The plant stays compact, about 30–40 cm tall, with deep purple leaves and lovely blue-purple flowers. The pods grow upright and ripen from purple through orange to red. It is very decorative, especially when several stages of ripeness show at once.
How Hot Is Numex Centennial?
Around 20,000–30,000 SHU
Flavour and Uses
The flavour is relatively mild, with a light fruitiness. It is excellent in pickles and lighter sauces, or dried to a powder for a colourful spice.
Ways to Use Numex Centennial
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Use as an edible garnish on dishes
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Dry whole pods into pretty chilli strings
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Ideal for colourful pickles
How to Grow Numex Centennial
Numex Centennial belongs to Capsicum annuum. Sow your chilli seeds between February and April. It is easy to grow, fast-growing and very suitable for beginners. It does well in a pot, both indoors and outdoors.
Price is for 6 chilli seeds
Sow in moist seed compost and keep warm, at about 25–30°C for the best germination. The compost should be moist but not wet. A mini propagator helps to keep the humidity up. Once the seedlings have grown a little and have their second pair of leaves, you can lower the temperature to about 20°C and move 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.
