Close up of Chocolate Trinidad Scorpion Hot Pepper on a white background.
Chocolate Trinidad Scorpion Pepper on blue background.
Hot Pepper Seeds, Chocolate Trinidad Scorpion
Chocolate Trinidad Scorpion Pepper on light background.
Close up of Chocolate Trinidad Scorpion Hot Pepper on a white background.
Chocolate Trinidad Scorpion Pepper on blue background.
Hot Pepper Seeds, Chocolate Trinidad Scorpion
Chocolate Trinidad Scorpion Pepper on light background.

Hot Pepper Seeds,
Chocolate Trinidad Scorpion

4.33 ReviewsSKU: #HPP210Min. seed count: 10
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Description

(Capsicum chinense). A beautiful take on the classic Trinidad Scorpion pepper. This stunning cocoa-colored chili pepper may be about 100 times hotter than the jalapeño. We recommend wearing gloves when harvesting and to be cautious eating it raw. The short, stubby, 2-inch long, wrinkled, chocolatey-brown-red peppers are borne on productive plants. The peppers have a more mellow, less acidic flavor with smoky undertones and hints of a nice earthy sweetness — perfect for hot, hot sauces!

Growing Tips: The Chocolate Trinidad Scorpion is a super-hot heirloom pepper that grows best in warm, sunny environments with rich, well-draining soil. The plants prefer full sun; however, they also appreciate a bit of afternoon shade during the hottest summer days.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Capsicum chinense
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
8–12 hr.
Days to Germinate
21–28
Days to Maturity
90
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
14–18 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Chocolate Trinidad Scorpion peppers require a long, warm growing season, so starting seeds indoors 8–12 weeks before the last frost is recommended. Transplant seedlings outdoors after nighttime temperatures are consistently above 65 F. They do well in USDA zones 9–11 but can also be grown as annuals in cooler zones with adequate heat and sun​. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, keeping the soil warm and moist. When transplanting outdoors, space plants 14-18 inches apart for good airflow, as these bushy plants can grow 2–3 feet tall. Use nutrient-rich, well-draining soil with compost added for optimal growth​.

How to Grow

Chocolate Trinidad Scorpion peppers thrive with 8-12 hours of full sunlight daily and consistent moisture in well-draining soil. Water deeply but avoid waterlogging, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Fertilize with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer every 3–4 weeks to support flowering and fruiting without excessive leaf growth. Adding stakes or cages helps support branches laden with heavy, wrinkled peppers​.

How to Save Seeds

  • Peppers are mainly self-pollinating, but bees occasionally work pepper flowers as well.
  • To be absolutely sure that you will not have any crossing, different varieties should be isolated by at least 500 feet.
  • To save seed, allow the fruit to mature fully; then simply remove seeds.
  • It is a good idea to wear gloves when working with very hot peppers, and to consider wearing a mask when working with a large quantity of dried seeds.
  • Let seeds dry for a week before storing them in a jar.
  • Pepper seeds will remain viable for up to 5 years.

FAQ

Can I make Chocolate Trinidad Scorpion peppers spicier?

Yes, you can slightly increase their heat by providing them with full sun, keeping the soil consistently warm, and slightly reducing watering as the peppers mature. Mild water stress can enhance capsaicin production, which increases the heat level.

How should I cook Chocolate Trinidad Scorpion peppers?

These peppers are ideal for hot sauces, marinades, BBQ sauces, and spicy powders, adding earthy, smoky heat. They are best used in small amounts to control the intense spiciness.

Can Chocolate Trinidad Scorpion peppers be grown in containers?

Yes, they grow well in large containers, at least 5 gallons, where they receive ample sunlight. Container growing also allows for easier temperature control, especially in cooler climates.

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