# Carolina Reaper

Source: https://shop.homegrowngardenschicago.com/product/carolina-reaper/
Published: 2024-03-04
Updated: 2026-04-01

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## **CAROLINA REAPER (*Capsicum chinense*)**

**Transplant | Mid–Late May | Annual**

Carolina Reaper peppers are one of the hottest peppers in the world, famous for their intense heat and distinctive wrinkled, lantern-shaped fruits with pointed tails. The peppers mature from green to vibrant red, creating a dramatic display on the plant.

Despite their extreme heat, Carolina Reapers also offer a surprisingly complex flavor with fruity, slightly sweet undertones before the intense heat develops. They are commonly used in hot sauces, chili oils, and small amounts in spicy dishes for those who enjoy bold heat.

Highly productive and eye-catching in the garden, Carolina Reaper plants produce numerous fiery peppers throughout the warm growing season.

## Growing Details

**Spice Level:** Extreme\
**Scoville Heat Units:** 1,400,000–2,200,000 SHU

**Harvest:** Harvest when peppers turn bright red and fully mature\
**Plant Spacing:** 2 ft\
**Sun:** Full sun\
**Cold Tolerance:** Warm-season crop; plant after danger of frost

## Garden Companions

**Best planted with:**\
Basil, tomatoes, onions, carrots, oregano

**Benefits:**\
Companion plants attract beneficial insects and support healthy garden growth.

**Avoid planting near:**\
Fennel, which may inhibit pepper growth.

## Pro Growing Tips

• Allow peppers to fully ripen for the most intense flavor and heat\
• Handle harvested peppers carefully and consider wearing gloves\
• Warm soil and consistent sunlight promote strong plant growth\
• Plants perform well in raised beds and large containers

## Health Highlights

**Capsaicin-rich peppers**\
Extremely high in capsaicin, the compound responsible for pepper heat.

**Antioxidant support**\
Peppers provide vitamin C and beneficial plant compounds.

**Metabolic benefits**\
Capsaicin has been studied for potential metabolic and circulation benefits.

*Pre-order now for productive summer transplants ready for planting after the last frost.*