About Capsicum Frutescens
A compact species known for upright-growing, fiery peppers. Tabasco and Thai bird's eye peppers are the most famous members. Small pods, big heat. We track 9 varieties in this species. All chili peppers belong to five domesticated Capsicum species, each with unique characteristics in heat range, flavor, pod shape, and growing requirements.
The hottest Capsicum frutescens in our database is Wiri Wiri at 100K–350K SHU, measured on the Scoville scale. Heat in peppers comes from capsaicin, a compound concentrated in the placental tissue inside the pod.
Growing Capsicum frutescens? Start with our seed-to-harvest guide and check the growing calendar for your zone. Understanding pepper anatomy helps identify species traits like seed color, flower count, and pod position.
All Capsicum Frutescens
Every variety in this collection, sorted by maximum Scoville heat rating. Click any card for the full profile with flavor notes, anatomy details, growing tips, and substitutes.
Wiri Wiri
Peri Peri
Piri Piri Pepper
Malagueta
Siling Labuyo
Lombok Pepper
Cabe Rawit
Kanthari Chili
Tabasco Pepper
Origins Breakdown
Capsicum frutescens varieties are grown worldwide. Explore peppers from specific regions in our origin hub pages.
Heat Level Distribution
How capsicum frutescens distribute across the Scoville scale. Click any tier to browse all peppers at that heat level.
Heat Range Comparison
Visual breakdown of where each variety falls on the Scoville scale. The bar width shows the documented SHU spread — wider bars mean more variable heat between individual pods. Learn why heat varies in our guide to pepper heat variation.
Related Comparisons
Side-by-side breakdowns of heat, flavor, and culinary uses. Each comparison covers Scoville ratings, pod anatomy, and substitution options.
Browse all comparisons in our comparison hub, or use the pepper tools for calculators and finders.
Related Guides
Deep-dive articles covering the cooking techniques, growing methods, and science behind capsicum frutescens.
Other Capsicum Species
All chili peppers belong to five domesticated Capsicum species. Each species has unique traits in heat capacity, pod shape, and growing requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore More
Browse our full pepper database, compare varieties head-to-head, or find peppers by heat level. For cooking inspiration, check our guides and recipes.