The Black Panther Pepper is a rare and exotic hot pepper variety admired for its striking looks and fiery bite. Its pods start off a deep, glossy black—like their namesake—before ripening to bright shades of Orange. The plants themselves are showy, often with dark stems and foliage that make them as ornamental as they are edible.
The peppers are medium-sized, with smooth skin and a sleek, tapered shape. Their flavor carries a fruity, smoky undertone beneath the heat, making them a standout for salsas, hot sauces, and bold culinary experiments.
🌶 Heat Level: 800,000 – 1,200,000 SHU (similar to ghost pepper territory)
🌱 Planting Guide
Start Indoors: 8–10 weeks before your last expected frost. Use a heat mat if possible; seeds germinate best in warm soil (80–90°F).
Transplanting: Move seedlings outside once nighttime temps stay above 55°F. Space plants 18–24 inches apart.
Sunlight: Full sun (6–8+ hours daily).
Soil: Rich, well-draining soil with added compost. Ideal pH is 6.0–6.8.
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but never soggy. Consistent watering improves fruit set and flavor.
Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer early on, then switch to one higher in potassium and phosphorus once flowering begins.
Maturity: Fruits typically ripen in 90-110 days from transplant.
