Scotch Bonnet Red
What Is Scotch Bonnet Red?
Scotch Bonnet Red is an intensely hot, fruity chilli, deeply rooted in Caribbean cooking. Chilli lovers prize it for its mix of sweetness and powerful heat – a must if you want to grow a chilli with both character and flavour.
Background and Name
The name “Scotch Bonnet” comes from the unique shape of the pod, which resembles a Scottish bonnet. The red variety is one of the most traditional and best-loved types in the Caribbean, where it is indispensable in spicy dishes such as jerk chicken and hot sauce.
Appearance and Growth Habit
The plant is bushy and compact at about 60–80 cm tall. The pods are medium-sized and rounded with the characteristic bonnet shape, and turn from green to deep red as they ripen. The variety is productive and gives a plentiful harvest throughout the season.
How Hot Is Scotch Bonnet Red?
Around 200,000–350,000 SHU
Flavour and Uses
The flavour is sweet and fruity with notes of tropical fruit, followed by a powerful, quick heat. It suits hot sauces, Caribbean dishes, grilled chicken and fiery marinades.
If you want an in-stock alternative with a clear bonnet shape, high heat and a more citrus-driven profile, Lemon Starrburst is an interesting related choice.
Ways to Use Scotch Bonnet Red
Scotch Bonnet Red is great blended into fruit sauces and chilli sauces, or pickled whole. Try combining it with mango, lime or ginger for an exotic twist. You can also dry the pods to make a flavourful chilli powder.
How to Grow Scotch Bonnet Red
Scotch Bonnet Red is a Capsicum chinense and should be sown between January and March. Give the plants plenty of light and warmth and nutrient-rich soil. It does well in large pots and gives the best harvest in a greenhouse or on a warm, sheltered patio.
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.
