Pepper Ghost Chili Bhut Jolokia

Details

Edible Qualities

Ghost Chili Pepper, also known as Bhut Jolokia, is a fiery hot pepper plant prized for its intense heat and unique flavor. It produces small, wrinkled peppers that start out green and ripen to a bright red color when mature. The fruit is known for its extreme spiciness, making it one of the hottest peppers in the world. The peppers have a thin, slightly crunchy texture with a smoky, fruity taste.

The peppers are most often used in the following ways:

• Fresh Eating
• Eating When Cooked/Prepared
• Cooking
• Sauces
• Pickling

Care

Planting & Growing

Ghost Chili Pepper, or Bhut Jolokia, is a vigorous plant that can grow up to 3 to 4 feet tall, with a spread of around 18 to 24 inches. When planting in rows, space individual plants about 18 to 24 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation. This plant is an annual, meaning it will complete its lifecycle within one growing season and then die after producing a crop of peppers.

While primarily grown for its edible fruit, the Ghost Chili Pepper is also quite ornamental, making it a striking addition to both vegetable gardens and landscape beds. It thrives in full sunlight and prefers well-drained, rich soil with consistent moisture, though it does not tolerate standing water. While the plant is not particularly fussy about soil pH, it grows best in slightly acidic to neutral soil. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution, making it a suitable option for more developed areas. To conserve moisture and maintain consistent soil conditions, applying a thick mulch around the base of the plant is recommended during the growing season.

Ghost Chili Pepper is an excellent choice for garden beds, but it also adapts well to containers and pots. It can be incorporated into "spiller-thriller-filler" container designs, providing a bold, colorful element that contrasts beautifully with other plants. Keep in mind that container-grown plants may require more frequent watering, especially during hot, dry periods.