July - Wild Chile Species

One of the things I have been really looking forward to this year is the challenge of growing wild (and very rare) chile species. Most people are familiar with the five domestic species – Annuum, Baccatum, Chinense, Frutescens and Pubescens, however there are at least twenty odd wild species all of which originate from the jungles of South America

I have been very fortunate to obtain viable seed from several 'pod pals' around the world and despite their reputation for being difficult to germinate and grow on, I have managed to nurse several of the wild species along. The Capsicum Galapogense were the most difficult with the seeds taking almost 10 weeks to germinate.

Some common traits of wild species include their stunning flowers, very small (and hot) berry like pods and delicate foliage. Check out the chileman guide to chile species and the chileman database (using the species drop down) for more details. I can't wait to photograph the flowers and put the pods into my tummy!!