About this seed

Biquinho Black is a Brazilian heirloom of the Biquinho group (Capsicum chinense, family Solanaceae) whose small teardrop fruit turn glossy deep purple to almost black before finishing burgundy-red. Heat is mild, 500–1,000 Scoville heat units. The packet holds 5 seeds.

Also known as: Chupetinho Black, Chupetinha Black, Biquinho pepper, Pimenta biquinho (Portuguese, Brazil), Chupetinha (Portuguese, Brazil), Mirchi (Hindi), Milagai (Tamil), Mulaku (Malayalam), Chile (Spanish), Piment (French), Peperoncino (Italian), Pimenta (Portuguese), Chili (German), Prik (Thai).

Fruit and plant

Teardrop fruit about 2.5 cm (1 in) long
Colour runs greenish-purple, then glossy deep purple or black, then burgundy-red
Compact, bushy plants up to 60–75 cm (24–30 in), for containers or bed edges
Fruity-sweet flavour with a smoky note

Sow warm: soil at 24–29 °C

Start the seed indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost and keep the soil at 24–29 °C until seedlings appear. This temperature comes from the notes for this variety.

Planting out

Transplant once seedlings are established and frost has passed, 45–60 cm apart, in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Water regularly but avoid excessive moisture.

When to expect fruit

Fruit matures about 80–100 days after transplanting.

What you get: 5 seeds per packet. Keep any seed you do not sow sealed, cool and dry. We have no tested storage life or germination percentage for this packet and do not state one.

FAQ

What colours does the fruit pass through?

Greenish-purple at first, then glossy deep purple to almost black, and finally rich burgundy-red.

How is it used?

As a garnish on salads, cheese boards and appetisers, pickled whole, or in sauces, marinades and salsas.