Jamaican Red Scotch Bonnet Pepper Seeds – Authentic Caribbean Superhot, 100,000–450,000 SHU (Capsicum chinense)

Jamaican Red Scotch Bonnet is the definitive Caribbean hot pepper — a Capsicum chinense heirloom with the iconic tam o’ shanter shape, blazing heat of 100,000–450,000 SHU, and the distinctively fruity, floral flavor that defines Jamaican jerk seasoning, pepper sauce, and Caribbean cooking worldwide. Native to Jamaica, this heavy-producing perennial plant delivers abundant yields of bright red, thin-skinned pods with unmatched heat and complexity.

About Jamaican Red Scotch Bonnet

The Scotch Bonnet is to Caribbean cuisine what the Habanero is to Mexican — indispensable, iconic, and irreplaceable. The Jamaican Red variant is prized for its exceptional fruity sweetness balanced against searing heat, making it the preferred variety for authentic jerk marinades, hot sauces, pepper jellies, and fresh Caribbean dishes. Compact, dense plants are extremely prolific and can be overwintered indoors as a perennial for years of continuous production.

Culinary Uses

• Essential in authentic Jamaican jerk marinade and dry rub
• Blend into Caribbean pepper sauce and hot sauce
• Add whole to soups, stews, and rice dishes for bold Caribbean heat
• Pickle in vinegar for a fiery, fruity condiment
• Use as a garnish for curry, oxtail, and escovitch fish

Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly after removing gloves. Keep away from eyes and sensitive areas.

Growing Tips

• Start indoors 10–12 weeks before last frost. Sow seeds 1/4" deep in warm, moist organic seed-starting mix.
• Germination takes 1–4 weeks. Use a heat mat (80–85F) — essential for reliable Capsicum chinense germination.
• Soak seeds in room-temperature water for up to 24 hours before planting to accelerate sprouting.
• Avoid peat plugs and standard potting soil — organic seed-starting mix prevents damping off.
• Harden off gradually before transplanting outdoors. Move outside once nighttime temps stay above 55F.
• Perennial — overwinter indoors to keep plants producing for multiple years.
• Container friendly — grows well in 5-gallon pots for patios or year-round indoor production.

Care Requirements

• Soil: Fertile, well-drained. Mulch around the base with straw or grass clippings.
• Water: Consistent deep watering during dry spells; soaker hoses recommended.
• Fertilizer: Slow-release at transplant; liquid feed every two weeks through the growing season.
• Harvest: Cut with garden scissors when pods reach full red color. Pick regularly to encourage prolific continued fruiting.