Capsicum frutescens

Origin: South-East Mexico from the state Tabasco

Color/s: Initially pale yellowish-green and turn yellow and orange before ripening to bright red

Scoville Heat Units (SHU): (hot) 30,000 to 50,000

Size:  1½ inches

Shape: Long, slightly plump pods with a point

Other Interesting Facts:

  • Unlike most chilis, tabasco fruits grow up, rather than hanging down from their stems.
  • Until recently, all of the peppers used to make the Tabasco sauce were grown on Avery Island, Louisiana.
  • They are the only variety of chili pepper whose fruits are “juicy”; i.e., they are not dry on the inside