Photo: "Mature Carolina Reaper" by Magnolia677
· CC BY 4.0
Hot pepper · Super-hot-pepper
Carolina Reaper peppers
Annual · Solanaceae
Carolina Reaper is a very late, extremely hot red pepper grown for gardeners who want a true end-of-season challenge. The wrinkled pods have a fruity aroma before the heat lands, but they need sustained warmth and a long season to color properly. This variety suits experienced growers who can start peppers early and provide dependable summer heat.
At a Glance
Days to Maturity
90–120 days
Sun
8+ hours
full sun 8-10 hours
Spacing
18–24 "
Seed Start
10–12 weeks
before transplant
Container
Yes
5+ gallon pot
Height
2–4 ft
Zone Planting Guide
Growing Guide
Germination
Germination Time10–21 days
Optimal Temp85°F
Seed Depth0.25"
Transplanting
Min Soil Temp60°F
Harden Off7 days
Watering
Weekly Water1–2 "
NeedsConsistent
MethodDrip
Soil
pH Range6–6.8
Soil TypeLoose, fertile, well-drained loam or raised-bed mix that warms quickly in spring.
SupportStake — A single stake or small cage prevents branch breakage once fruit load builds.
Resilience
Heat: HighCold: LowDrought: Moderate
Common Problems
blossom-drop
Cause: Day temperatures above the mid-90s F or warm nights above the mid-70s F reduce pollen viability.
Prevention: Use mulch, steady irrigation, and afternoon airflow; avoid pushing soft growth with excess nitrogen.
aphids
Cause: Tender new growth and stressed plants attract sap-feeding insects that can vector virus.
Prevention: Inspect undersides of leaves, wash off early colonies, and use insecticidal or neem sprays only as needed.
leaf-spot
Cause: Humid weather and wet foliage favor bacterial and fungal spotting.
Prevention: Space well, water at soil level, and remove badly infected leaves early.
Nutrition
Feeding IntensityModerate feeder
CalciumCritical — supplement recommended
Recommended RecipesRoot drench, Silica foliar
Harvest
Harvest when fruit is fully colored, glossy, and firm; immature fruit are less sweet and less pungent.
Expected Yield0.5–1.5 lbs/plant
Storage
10 days — Store dry and unwashed in a breathable bag in the refrigerator.
Sources
seed_catalog
West Coast Seeds
seed_catalog
Seedfella
university
Utah State University Extension
Planting dates for Carolina Reaper peppers vary by USDA hardiness zone. Select your zone below for frost dates, start-indoors timing, and a full monthly planting calendar.
