Description
Chilli Pepper ‘Friars Cap’ – Fruity, Sweet–Hot
‘Friars Cap’ is a distinctive Capsicum baccatum chilli known for its quirky hat-shaped fruits and its unique sweet, fruity heat. Popular in Barbadian salsas and salads, this variety delivers a delicious combination of a hot central body with mild, sweet “wings” around the edges. Plants are productive, ornamental, and perfect for growing in greenhouses or large pots outdoors.
Key Features
Heat level: approx. 10,000 SHU – medium heat with fruity sweetness
Unique shape: hat-like fruits with sweet side wings
Great yield: around 30 fruits per plant
Indeterminate plants – will need staking or support
Versatile use: ideal for salsas, salads, sauces, and fresh slicing
Grows well in pots outdoors or under cover
Sowing Instructions
When to Sow
Sow indoors from February to April. Chillies need warmth to germinate, so start early for the best harvest.
How to Sow
Fill small pots or seed trays with fine compost.
Sow seeds 1 cm deep, one seed per cell or pot.
Water lightly and keep the compost moist, not wet.
Temperature
Keep at 22–26°C for successful germination. A heated propagator works best.
After Germination
Seedlings appear in 10–21 days.
Move to a bright, warm spot with plenty of light.
Pot on into individual containers once roots fill the first pot.
Hardening Off
Before planting outside, harden plants off for 7–10 days, introducing them to outdoor conditions gradually.
Planting Out
Transfer to final pots (at least 7–10 L) once nights stay above 10°C. Provide support as plants are indeterminate and will continue to grow.
Culinary Uses
Slice fresh for salads
Crush or dice for salsas and sauces
Adds vibrant flavour without overpowering heat
Take Care
These chillies sit around 10,000 SHU, so handle fruits with care and wash hands thoroughly after handling.
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