Bishop's Hat

Description

Bishop’s Hat has one of the most recognisable shapes in the chili world. Each pod flares out into three or four flat wings around a raised central crown, so depending on who is looking it resembles a bishop’s mitre, a little flying saucer or an orchid flower. No wonder it has collected so many names over the years, from Bishop’s Crown and Christmas Bell to Friar’s Hat. It is an old variety, often linked to the Caribbean island of Barbados.

The pods are wider than they are long, around 4–7 cm across the wings, and ripen from pale green through orange to a glossy red. The flesh is thin and crisp.

The real fun starts when you eat one. The wings are sweet and mild, fresh and slightly tangy, easy to munch raw, while the central crown around the seeds carries a warm kick. Trim off the wings for a sweet snack, or keep the crown for a spicy one. Overall it sits at a comfortable medium heat, though it varies quite a bit from pod to pod and rises as the pods colour up. The hollow shape is perfect for pickling, escabeche or a light stuffing, and sliced wings look great in a salad.

The plant grows tall and open, typically around 120–130 cm, and the branches can get heavy with pods, so give it a stake and a decent-sized pot or a spot in the bed.

Some chilies are worth tasting before you grow them. → Explore the Vault

Each pack contains approximately 8–10 or more seeds per variety.
Seeds are packaged in a certified EU seed packaging facility in accordance with applicable regulations.

Categories: Chili Seeds , C. baccatum , Medium , Easy to grow