Seven Star Chili
Also known as Zhi Tian Jiao · Man Tian Xing · Xindian Qixing Jiao · Sichuan 7 Stars · Stars-in-the-Sky
A compact Chinese Capsicum annuum chili with distinctive upright, star-like clusters of small conical red pods. Known as Seven Star, Zhi Tian Jiao, or Man Tian Xing, it delivers aromatic medium-to-high heat around 60,000 SHU and is a classic ingredient in Sichuan hot pot, chili oils, and stir-fries.
About 2.4 times a Capsi Jalapeño (25,086 SHU typical).
Growing
~85 days to maturity
Fruit size
1–5 cm
Flavor & Use
Aromatic with citrus notes, clean heat, and a distinctive sweet aftertaste in the Xindian landrace.
Culinary
About
Seven Star Chili is a Chinese Capsicum annuum variety prized for its upright-growing small conical to spindle-shaped pods that point skyward, often in star-like clusters. Pods measure roughly 1–5 cm long and 0.5–1 cm wide, with thin walls, smooth glossy skin, and a bright red ripe color after starting green. Plants are compact and bushy, typically 30–85 cm tall. The variety is closely related to Facing Heaven (Chao Tian Jiao) types and is known in China as Zhi Tian Jiao, Man Tian Xing (“starry sky”), or Xindian Qixing Jiao. It delivers medium-to-high heat with an aromatic, slightly citrusy character and, in some regional selections such as the Xindian landrace, a distinctive sweet aftertaste.
Backstory
Chili peppers reached China via Portuguese and Spanish trade in the late 16th century and became central to Sichuan and Hunan cooking by the 18th century. Seven Star Chili (also called Zhi Tian Jiao or Man Tian Xing) takes its name from the upward-pointing pods that resemble stars or the Big Dipper. The Xindian (Xin Dian) landrace from Weiyuan County, Sichuan, received Chinese geographic-indication protection in 2007 and has long been used in chili-eating contests for its intense yet aromatic heat.
Appearance
Growing
Heritage
ExploreWe don't have a documented family for this pepper yet.
Sources
FAQ
- How hot is Seven Star Chili?
- Capsi’s sourced range is 59,348 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 Seven Star Chili taste like?
- Aromatic with citrus notes, clean heat, and a distinctive sweet aftertaste in the Xindian landrace.
- How do I grow Seven Star Chili?
- Seven Star Chili: about 85 days to maturity, subtropical climate, full sun, hardiness zones 9-11.
- What can I substitute for Seven Star Chili?
- Capsi does not have that recorded yet.