🌶️ The Thunder Mountain Longhorn chilli is a showstopper in the pepper world—famous for its dramatic length, twisty shape, and rich cultural heritage.
Native to the Leigongshan (Thunder Mountain) region in Guizhou, China
Cultivated for generations by the Miao people, who use it in drying, pickling, and fermenting traditions
Considered one of the longest chillies in the world, reaching up to 40 cm
Species: Capsicum annuum (landrace variety)
Height: Can grow up to 150 cm in pots or 3–4 feet in gardens
Growth Habit: Upright with spidery branches; benefits from support
Climate: Thrives in warm, sunny conditions (24°C to 32°C)
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Length | Up to 40 cm (some over 1 foot!) |
| Shape | Long, thin, twisted, and curled |
| Heat Level | Mild to medium (5,000–40,000 Scoville units depending on source) |
| Flavor | Fruity, slightly citrusy, with a smoky sweetness when dried |
| Texture | Thin-skinned, firm when fresh, architectural when dried |
| Uses | Stir-fries, soups, drying, smoking, powdering, pickling |
Sunlight: Needs 6–8 hours of direct sun daily
Soil: Well-drained, pH 6.2–7.0, enriched with compost
Watering: Keep soil moist but not soggy; mulch helps retain moisture
Fertilizer: Balanced feed every 2 weeks during growing season
Harvest: 70–80 days after sowing; pods ripen from green to glossy red
