Bulgarian Carrot Pepper

Sweet and fruity with tangy notes, crisp texture, and moderate heat that lingers pleasantly in the back of the throat.

The Bulgarian Carrot pepper, also known as Shipka or Hot Carrot pepper, is an heirloom variety native to Bulgaria. Its pods are elongated and tapered, typically 2–4 inches long, with a distinctive carrot-like shape, glossy bright-orange skin when ripe, and thick, crunchy walls. The plants are compact, reaching about 18 inches in height, and produce abundant early-maturing fruits. Flavor is sweet and fruity with tangy notes and a moderate lingering heat. It is versatile in the kitchen—excellent for roasting, pickling, fresh salsas, chutneys, marinades, and sauces—where its vibrant color and crisp texture shine. Believed to possibly originate from a cross between a local Bulgarian pepper and a Caribbean habanero-type, it remained largely unknown outside Bulgaria until seeds were reportedly smuggled out during the late 1970s or 1980s. Today it is popular among home gardeners and chefs for both culinary and ornamental use.

Heirloom variety from Bulgaria where it is known as Shipka. Reportedly smuggled out from behind the Iron Curtain in the late 1970s or 1980s. Possibly a natural cross between a local Bulgarian pepper and a Caribbean habanero-type chili. Remained localized until spreading to Europe and North America in recent decades.