Chinese Dragon Tongue Pepper
Also known as Chinese Dragon Tongue Cayenne · Long Chinese Cayenne
A traditional Chinese Capsicum annuum chilli known for its dramatically twisted, wrinkled pods that develop striking purple streaks before ripening to red. Quick-growing, productive plants produce fruits that dry exceptionally well.
Growing
~80 days to maturity
Fruit size
10–15 cm
Flavor & Use
Sweet with slightly smoky undertones and crisp thin walls; offers versatile manageable heat excellent fresh or dried into flakes/powder.
Culinary
About
The Chinese Dragon Tongue Pepper is a traditional variety originating from China and preserved in the collection of Ulla Grall of Bio-Saatgut in Germany. It produces large bushes reaching about 60 cm in height that are quick-growing and highly productive. The fruits are long (10-15 cm), slender, contorted and heavily wrinkled, resembling a dragon's tongue or flickering flame. They develop from a pale lime green or creamy color often marked with dramatic purple streaks (especially in strong sun) to a brilliant cherry or deep red when fully ripe. The plants may show purple tints in stems and leaves. This variety is valued for its ease of drying, making it excellent for stringing and kitchen use year-round, and its versatile moderate heat.
Backstory
This heirloom variety hails from China and was part of the seed collection of Ulla Grall of the German seed company Bio-Saatgut. It has been distributed through specialty seed companies in Europe, appreciated for its ornamental fruit, productivity, and reliable drying qualities.
Appearance
Growing
Heritage
We don't have a documented family for this pepper yet.