Pepper Birds Eye

Description

Capsicum annuum 'Bird's Eye,' commonly known as Bird's Eye Chili or Thai Chili, is a fiery and compact pepper variety celebrated for its intense heat and culinary versatility. This small chili pepper is native to Southeast Asia and has become a sought-after ingredient in global cuisines. The Bird's Eye Chili, with its conical or cylindrical shape, reaches a modest size of 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) in length. Its vibrant red hue, especially when mature, adds visual appeal to the plant, creating a striking contrast against the bright green foliage. With a heat level ranging between 50,000 to 100,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU), these peppers pack a punch, delivering a potent and spicy kick to culinary creations. In addition to its ornamental charm, the Bird's Eye Chili holds significant culinary importance, particularly in Thai, Indonesian, and other Southeast Asian dishes. Renowned for its intense heat, it adds depth and spice to a wide array of recipes, from curries and stir-fries to sauces and condiments. The small size of the peppers allows for precise control over spiciness levels, contributing to their popularity in diverse cuisines. The Bird's Eye Chili plant, with its manageable height of about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm), is well-suited for container gardening, making it an accessible and convenient addition to home kitchens. Beyond its culinary appeal, these peppers have cultural significance, often used in traditional medicine for their potential health benefits, thanks to capsaicin, their active compound. Overall with its fiery heat and culinary versatility, this pepper variety adds a dynamic and flavorful dimension to a wide range of dishes, reflecting its Southeast Asian origins and global popularity.

Sowing Advice

Surface-sow or barely cover the seeds indoors, and keep moist and warm above 20C. (Peppers generally demand warmer conditions than tomatoes to germinate successfully). When sprouts appear move them to a sunny window. Set out well-developed transplants when weather is warm. Peppers need rich moist soil and warm sunny conditions to flourish. Best sown in early spring.

Key Facts