Capsicum, Pepper (Hot), Matchbox Pepper ~ 25 seeds

Just like its namesake, this little pepper can light a big fire in your mouth. Small fruits in dark greens, light greens, yellow greens, and reds completely cover the sprawling, low-growing, bushy plants, which have attractive, deep green, semi-glossy leaves. It only takes one match to light a fire, and just one of these little peppers will lend a fruity and flavorful heat to any dish. Like it hot? Two will crackle, three will smoke, and four will blaze!

This compact and decorative plant is a terrific option for container gardens. The plants are unbelievably pretty; their dozens of bright red fruit look outstanding against the profusion of tiny, slightly waxy leaves. Its thicker skin means that Matchbox does not dry as easily as Cayenne, but it will do fine in a dehydrator. A couple plants will keep you in chilies all season or all year.

Growing Instructions
Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost, then transplant 3 weeks after last frost. Requires heat for germination, which can take 10-14 days. Transplant once weather has settled, usually 2 weeks after tomatoes have been transplanted (peppers will tolerate earlier transplanting but won't grow much). 

Quick Facts
Days to Germination: 7-14 days
Days to Maturity: 75 days from transplant
Planting Depth: ¼"
Spacing in Row: 18"
Spacing Between Rows: 36"
Height at Maturity: 30"
Sun Preference: Full Sun

About the Artist
Artwork by Ryan Cronin. Matchbox pepper needed art to match its hot flavor. Ryan's Rust-O-Leum painting uses clashing colors and bold taste to communicate the experience of cooking with this hot pepper, which was bred in the Northeast by Roberta Bailey.