Chilli - Mutant Candlelight Caramel

Chili Mutant Candlelight Caramel (Capsicum annuum) is one the most unusual, rare and collectible chili varieties in the world. It is an exceptional mutation from the variety Candlelight Red, in which due to FILIFORM genes develop extremely narrow, almost thread-like leaves, thin flower petals and very special, tiny fruits. It is this mutation that makes it completely unique – the plant has no culinary value, but is valued exclusively as botanical specialty and horticultural collector's item.

The fruits are small, irregular and often parthenocarpic (without seeds). Only about 1 fruit out of 10 contains some seeds, which further confirms the extreme rarity of this variety. The burning sensation is unpredictable — from imperceptible to mild, approximately around 10,000 SHU, but this property is insignificant, as the variety is not intended for consumption.

The plant is very compact, adult specimens measure only 10–20 cm in height and 10–15 cm wide, with a characteristic growth from the ground. The threadlike leaves are about 5 cm long, but only a few millimeters wide, giving the plant a complete “mutant” appearance. The flowers are white, typical of annuum species, but with an exceptionally thin, elongated petals.

One of the biggest advantages of Mutant Candlelight Caramel is its exceptional resistance — mutant plants tolerate well heat, drought and even cold near 0 °C. For this reason, some believe that it has its origins in desert areas of the Maghreb. It grows well in small pots (1–5 liters) and is highly prized among collectors due to its unusual growth and rarity.