Birds Eye Chili - The hot one from Africa

Origin and use

The Birds Eye Chili originally comes from Africa and is now known in many parts of the world. It is a popular ingredient for spicy dishes, especially in Asian cuisines. The chilies are often used fresh or dried to add the desired spicy kick to soups, curries and sauces.

Birds Eye chilies are famous for their intense spiciness. On the Scoville scale they typically reach 100,000 to 225,000 SHU. This spiciness gives the dishes a fiery note and ensures an intense taste experience.

Features and cultivation

The Birds Eye Chili plant is characterized by a moderate growth height of around 40-80 cm. The fruits are small, only about 1-2 cm long, and are bright red or orange in colour, depending on ripeness. They grow on bushy plants and are relatively easy to grow, which is why they can also be found in many home gardens.

Key facts at a glance:

• Capsicum: Capsicum frutescens.
• Heat :  9
• Scoville units: 100,000 - 250,000 SHU
• Growth height: 40-80 cm
• Fruit size: 1-2cm
• Fruit colour: Bright red or orange-red depending on the degree of ripeness.
• Country of origin: Africa, but is grown worldwide