Red Hot Cherry Pepper | 25 Seeds

CLASSIFICATION: Capsicum annuum (Heirloom) HEAT INDEX: 3,500–5,000 SHU (Medium) FORM: Spherical | 1-Inch Diameter ROLE: The Culinary Decoy

Visual mimicry is usually a survival tactic. In the case of the Red Cherry Pepper, it is an invitation.

This heirloom produces fruit that is the precise shape, size, and glossy scarlet color of a Bing cherry. However, any attempt to treat it as a fruit will result in immediate regret. It packs a solid, medium-heat punch (comparable to a Jalapeño) that belies its innocent appearance.

It is highly ornamental, productive, and architectural. The plant holds the peppers upright like ornaments, making it a striking addition to a container garden—provided you warn your guests before they reach for a snack.

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THE CURATOR'S NOTES

• Structural Integrity: The walls of this pepper are exceptionally thick and rigid. In culinary construction terms, they are load-bearing. This makes them the absolute gold standard for hollowing out and stuffing with prosciutto and provolone. They do not collapse under the weight of the filling.
• The Antipasto Essential: This is the classic "Cherry Bomb" found in high-end Italian delis. Pickled whole, they retain their crunch and heat indefinitely, serving as the aggressive counterpoint to a fatty charcuterie board.
• The Heat Profile: At 5,000 Scoville Heat Units, it is assertive but not punitive. It provides a warmth that lingers without destroying the palate.
• The Trap: Do not mix these into a fruit salad. The visual similarity to actual cherries is nearly perfect. Keep your harvest segregated to avoid a very specific type of dinner party disaster.