Species:Baccatum, Easy to grow, High yield, Rare, Upper Mid Heat

Belonging to the Capsicum baccatum species, the Madre Vieja Chilli exhibits robust growth and exceptional productivity. Its adaptability to container cultivation makes it a favourite among gardeners seeking a bountiful harvest in limited spaces.

Taste Profile

The Madre Vieja Chilli boasts a distinct flavour profile akin to grapefruit, setting it apart from other varieties. This unique taste adds depth and complexity to culinary creations, making it a sought-after ingredient in sauces, powders, and various dishes.To truly savour its essence, explore our chilli tasting video below.

Heat Level

With an upper mid-level heat, the Madre Vieja Chilli delivers a satisfying burn that enhances the overall dining experience. Its balanced spiciness complements its fruity undertones, creating a harmonious blend of flavour and heat. It ranges around 10,000 to 30,000 SHU on the Scoville scale.

Texture and Appearance

characterised by thin, crispy walls, the pods of the Madre Vieja Chilli measure approximately 6 cm in length and 1 cm in width. Their transition from light green to warm yellow upon ripening adds visual appeal to the plant, making it an attractive addition to any garden or indoor space.

Size of Plant

This compact plant reaches a height of 80-90 cm, making it suitable for container cultivation. Its manageable size makes it ideal for home gardens, balconies, or windowsills, where space may be limited.

Culinary Uses

The Madre Vieja Chilli lends itself well to various culinary applications, thanks to its unique flavour and moderate heat level. Whether used fresh in sauces or dried and ground into powder, it adds a distinctive taste to dishes, enhancing their overall complexity.

Growing and Care

Easy to grow and maintain, the Madre Vieja Chilli thrives in well-drained soil and ample sunlight. Regular watering and occasional fertilization promote healthy growth and abundant yields. With proper care, this versatile chilli plant rewards gardeners with a bountiful harvest of flavourful pods throughout the growing season.

Fun Facts

“Madre Vieja” translates to “Old Mother” in Spanish, reflecting the chilli’s mature and robust character.

The chilli’s smoky flavour is attributed to the unique soil and climate conditions of its native region.

Indigenous tribes have used Madre Vieja Chilli for centuries, both as a spice and for medicinal purposes.