Greendoor - Bishop’s Crown – Chili Seeds

• Spectacular shape: Its three-pointed, bell-shaped form makes it a popular ornamental plant.
• Interesting heat profile: A distinctive feature of this variety is the uneven distribution of heat – the flesh is often mild, whilst the seeds and placenta offer a pleasant heat.
• Enormous yield: The plants are extremely productive and hang heavy with decorative ‘bells’ in late summer.

Plant characteristics

Bishop’s Crown is a vigorous and very tall variety:

• Growth habit: It grows very vigorously, is highly branched and almost tree-like. The branches are long and overhanging.
• Height: In the ground or in large pots, it easily reaches a height of 1.20 to 1.50 metres, and even more under ideal conditions.
• Flowers: Typical of C. baccatum are the white flowers with their characteristic yellow-green spots.
• Hardiness: It is less sensitive to cold than many other chilli varieties and bears fruit well into late autumn.

The fruit

The fruits are small architectural masterpieces:

• Shape: Bell-shaped with three or more distinctive bulges at the tip. They grow to about 4 to 6 cm wide.
• Colour progression: The pods ripen from a light green through orange to a bright, deep red.
• Texture: Crisp, firm flesh with a very smooth and glossy skin.

Flavour & heat level

The Bishop’s Crown offers a varied taste experience:

• Heat level: 4 to 6 (mild to medium-hot). The wings of the fruit are often almost entirely mild (0 to 2), whilst the centre can reach a heat level of approx. 5,000 to 15,000 SHU.
• Aroma: Very fruity and sweet with a tangy note reminiscent of green apple or rhubarb.

Uses

Its shape and mild aroma make it a favourite in the kitchen:

• Stuffed: The ideal variety for stuffing with cream cheese, minced meat or olives.
• Fresh: Sliced (the little stars look great!) in salads or as a garnish.
• Pickling: The classic choice for sweet-and-sour pickled chillies (‘Piquanté’ style), as they retain their crisp texture.

Technical details

• Type: Capsicum baccatum
• Contents: 10+ seeds
• Heat level: 4–6 (Medium-hot)
• Sowing: February to March (pre-sowing recommended)
• Maturation period: approx. 90–100 days (allow for a long growing season)
• Location: Full sun and warm; due to its size, a sheltered spot or tying to a sturdy stake is important.