Fatalii
Also known as Fatalii Pepper · Fatalii Chile · African Fatalii
The Fatalii is a very hot African chinense pepper prized for its intense tropical-fruit flavor and bright citrus notes. It is one of the most flavorful superhots and a favorite among hot sauce makers and growers worldwide.
About 12 times a Capsi Jalapeño (25,086 SHU typical).
Growing
~100 days to maturity
Fruit size
6–9 cm
Flavor & Use
Explosively tropical and citrusy with strong mango, pineapple, and lemon notes plus a sweet floral finish. The heat is intense but the complex fruitiness makes it one of the most enjoyable superhots to cook with.
Culinary
About
Fatalii peppers are small (2–3 inches / 5–8 cm), heavily wrinkled, lantern-shaped pods with thin but juicy walls. They ripen from green to a brilliant bright yellow (the most common form) or orange-red.
Backstory
Originating in Central Africa, the Fatalii was brought to global attention in the early 2000s by superhot pepper enthusiasts. Its name is believed to come from a local African word. It quickly became a favorite among growers for its exceptional fruitiness and high productivity, and it remains one of the most flavorful chinense varieties available. Developed as a landrace from chilies introduced from the Americas via historical trade.
Appearance
Growing
Heritage
ExplorePeppers bred from Fatalii
Sources
FAQ
- How hot is Fatalii?
- Capsi’s sourced range is 300,000–325,000 SHU (Vendor Claim). 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 Fatalii taste like?
- Explosively tropical and citrusy with strong mango, pineapple, and lemon notes plus a sweet floral finish. The heat is intense but the complex fruitiness makes it one of the most enjoyable superhots to cook with.
- How do I grow Fatalii?
- Fatalii: about 100 days to maturity, tropical climate, full sun, hardiness zones 9-11.
- What can I substitute for Fatalii?
- habanero, scotch bonnet