Capsicum chinense (Chili) Hot Paper Lantern – Tropical chili with a striking lantern shape

The Capsicum chinense (Chili) Hot Paper Lantern is a unique chili that stands out for its decorative, lantern-shaped fruits, bright red color, and intense heat. This variety belongs to the Capsicum chinense species, known for its fruity aroma and high Scoville index. Hot Paper Lantern combines a spectacular garden appearance with powerful culinary applications and is ideal for experienced gardeners and spicy food lovers.

Characteristics and origin

The Hot Paper Lantern produces medium-sized, spherical to slightly conical fruits that are strongly reminiscent of traditional Asian lanterns. The fruits are typically 4–6 cm long and ripen from green to bright red. The thin, shiny skin and fruity aroma make this chili both visually appealing and culinary versatile.

This chili has a high heat (approximately 150,000–250,000 Scoville units) and a tropical fruity aroma, typical of Capsicum chinense . The combination of sharp heat and aromatic fruitiness makes Hot Paper Lantern popular in spicy sauces, marinades, and exotic dishes.

Growth habit and cultivation information

The Capsicum chinense Hot Paper Lantern grows to a medium-sized plant, 60–100 cm tall. The plants are well-branched, vigorous, and produce an abundance of flowers that develop into the characteristic lantern-shaped fruits.

Optimal growing conditions:

• Sowing: February–April indoors

• Germination temperature: 25–28°C for fast and uniform germination

• Prick out: when there are 2-3 true leaves

• Plant out: after the last frost, mid-May or later

• Location: sunny, warm and sheltered; a greenhouse or conservatory promotes optimal fruit development

• Soil: fertile, airy, well-drained; organic fertilizers encourage healthy growth

Hot Paper Lantern requires a long growing season and is sensitive to cold. Regular watering and organic fertilizer promote a strong plant and maximum yield. Branch support may be necessary for heavily laden plants.

Harvest and culinary uses

The Hot Paper Lantern produces an abundant harvest of medium-sized, red fruits from mid-summer until the first frost. Harvest young for a slightly milder heat, or fully ripe for maximum pungency and aromatic intensity.

Culinary applications:

• Hot sauces and salsas, in which the fruity aroma comes into its own

• Grill, roast or bake, enhancing the fruity notes

• Canning or fermenting, ideal for spicy sauces and preserves

• Dry or ground, as a spice for meat, fish and vegetables

• Decorative in dishes, thanks to the striking lantern shape and bright color

This chili is not only culinary attractive, but also a decorative eye-catcher in the vegetable garden, greenhouse or pots.

Why choose Capsicum chinense Hot Paper Lantern?

• Decorative lantern-shaped fruits

• Bright red color and tropical fruity aroma

• High heat suitable for experienced chili lovers

• Productive and strong plant

• Suitable for greenhouse, conservatory and warm vegetable garden

• Long harvest season from summer to autumn

• Versatile in the kitchen: fresh, dried, stuffed or processed into sauces