Chilli Pepper 'Scallywag'

Rocoto chillies are one of the most impressive when in full fruit but grow very large and take a long time to mature. Chilli Pepper Scallywag defies tradition by being the earliest to ripen, as well as one of the most compact and perennial. Plants offer cascading beauty and an abundance of fiery red chillies with a distinctive appearance. Purple flowers develop into brilliant red, glossy fruits that resemble mini bell peppers, with thick, juicy flesh and unusual black seeds. At 80,000 SHU, this is a hot chilli and its juiciness means that its best used fresh. It makes delicious salsas and in South America the fleshy fruits are traditionally stuffed with meat or cheese and baked. Take care when slicing these very juicy fruits as they can spurt chilli juice.Plants can be successfully overwintered. Simply move them to a frost-free conservatory or lean-to, keep them reasonably dry, and theyll burst back to life in spring. Height: 60cm (24in). Spread: 45cm (18in).