Black Panther Pepper
Also known as Black Ghost · Black Panther Orange
The Black Panther Pepper is a striking superhot hybrid of the Ghost Pepper and Pimenta da Neyde, known for its dramatic dark foliage and pods that transition from near-black to vibrant red or orange.
About 15 times a Capsi Jalapeño (25,086 SHU typical).
Growing
~150 days to maturity
Fruit size
5–10 cm
Flavor & Use
Slightly fruity with mild potpourri floweriness and classic chinense notes, though the intense heat often overshadows the subtle flavors.
Culinary
About
The Black Panther Pepper stands out as a visually striking superhot variety within the Capsicum chinense species. Developed as a cross between the fiery Bhut Jolokia (Ghost Pepper) and the anthocyanin-rich Pimenta da Neyde discovered in Brazil, it combines extreme heat with ornamental qualities. Plants typically reach 3 to 4 feet in height and display dark purple to jet-black foliage under full sun conditions due to elevated levels of anthocyanins, which also tint the unripe pods nearly black. The wrinkled pods grow 2 to 4 inches long and 0.75 to 1 inch wide, ripening from dark purple or black to shades of red or orange, sometimes with iridescent purple accents. The flavor profile offers subtle fruity and citrus notes with a hint of floral potpourri, making it suitable for hot sauces and salsas where the heat can be balanced. This pepper thrives in long, warm growing seasons requiring 110 to 180 days from seed to harvest and is prized by enthusiasts for both its ornamental beauty and potent spice.
Backstory
The Black Panther Pepper originated from a deliberate cross between the Pimenta da Neyde, a rare purple chili discovered in Brazil, and the Bhut Jolokia Ghost Pepper from India. This hybridization introduces high anthocyanin content for its signature dark pigmentation while preserving the extreme heat of the Ghost Pepper. It has become popular in the chili growing community for its dramatic appearance and is often sold by specialty seed companies.
Appearance
Growing
Heritage
ExploreParents
Sources
FAQ
- How hot is Black Panther Pepper?
- Capsi’s sourced range is 372,825 SHU (Lab-verified). Capsi uses a sourced range and a trust tier, not a single marketing number. How we verify heat: https://web.thecapsi.app/learn/heat-and-capsaicin/how-we-measure-heat
- What does Black Panther Pepper taste like?
- Slightly fruity with mild potpourri floweriness and classic chinense notes, though the intense heat often overshadows the subtle flavors.
- How do I grow Black Panther Pepper?
- Black Panther Pepper: about 150 days to maturity, subtropical climate, full sun, hardiness zones 9-11.
- What can I substitute for Black Panther Pepper?
- Ghost Pepper, Carolina Reaper