Everything You Wanted To Know About Red Savina Pepper 

Red Savina Pepper is one of the hottest peppers in the world, ranking at a scorching 577,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). Frank Garcia and GNS Spices Inc. developed it in Walnut Creek, California. The pepper is a hybrid of the Habanero and an unknown variety from Peru. The pepper gained fame in 1994 when it was declared the hottest pepper in the world, dethroning the previous record holder, the Habanero. 

Since then, it has become a sought-after ingredient for spicy food lovers and is used in various cuisines worldwide. This article will dive deeper into everything you want to know about Red Savina Pepper. So let’s get started! 

What is Red Savina Pepper? 

The red Savina Pepper is a chili pepper known for its intense heat and vibrant red color. It belongs to the Capsicum Chinese species, including other hot peppers such as Habanero, Scotch bonnet, and Bhut Jolokia. The pepper has a unique shape with a tapered end and wrinkled skin. Its heat level is measured on the Scoville scale, which measures peppers’ spiciness. Red Savina Pepper has a rating of 577,000 SHU, making it one of the hottest peppers in the world.  

History and Origin of the Red Savina Pepper

The development of Red Savina Pepper can be traced back to the 1980s when a farmer named Frank Garcia purchased a farm in Walnut Creek, California. Garcia had a passion for growing chili peppers and experimenting with different varieties. In 1989, he obtained seeds from Habanero peppers grown in Yucatan, Mexico. He planted these seeds alongside other varieties of peppers, including a Peruvian pepper that he had obtained from a friend. The plants cross-pollinated and gave rise to Red Savina Pepper, which Garcia named after his wife, Savina. 

At first, Garcia was unaware of the potential of this new pepper variety. However 1994, when he submitted it to Dr. Paul Bosland, a renowned chili pepper expert, for testing, it had a heat level of 577,000 SHU, making it the hottest pepper then. It also had vibrant red skin and a fruity flavor, which made it popular among chili lovers.

Physical Description of Red Savina Pepper  

Red Savina Pepper has a unique shape, similar to that of a Scotch bonnet pepper, with a tapered end and wrinkled skin. The peppers are usually small, measuring 1-2 inches long and 1 inch wide. When ripe, they turn from green to bright red. The skin is thin but tough, making it ideal for drying and grinding into a powder.  

The flesh of Red Savina Pepper is thick and crunchy, with a bright orange color. Inside the pepper, several small white seeds contain most of the heat. The aroma of this pepper is fruity and slightly sweet. 

Falovor of Red Savina Pepper:   

The flavor of Red Savina Pepper is complex, with a perfect balance between heat and sweetness. The initial taste is spicy but not overwhelming, followed by a fruity and slightly tangy flavor that lingers in the mouth. This unique combination of flavors makes it stand out from other peppers. It has been described as having a tropical fruit flavor with hints of apple, apricot, and cherry. This complexity in flavor is due to the high concentration of capsaicinoids present in this pepper. 

Seasonality and Availability Throughout the Year of Red Savina Pepper

Red Savina Pepper is a warm-season crop and thrives in hot and humid weather. It requires a long growing season to reach its optimal ripeness, typically 150-180 days. Therefore, it is mostly grown in tropical or subtropical regions such as Mexico, Peru, and the Caribbean. 

Due to its limited availability and high demand among hot pepper enthusiasts, Red Savina Pepper is usually sold year-round in its dried and powdered form. This allows for easier storage and transportation, making it accessible to consumers worldwide. Fresh Red Savina Peppers are more challenging to find outside their growing regions and are typically available during the peak season from late summer to early fall. 

Preparing for Planting Red Savina Pepper

Now that we have covered the basics of preparing your garden for planting let’s focus on a specific plant – the Red Savina Pepper. This variety of chili peppers is known for its extreme heat, ranking at over 500,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU) on the Scoville scale. It is considered one of the hottest peppers in the world, making it a popular choice for those who love spicy foods.

To successfully grow Red Savina Peppers, there are a few key factors to keep in mind:

Soil

This pepper plant thrives in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. It is important to test the acidity of your soil before planting and make any necessary adjustments to ensure the best-growing conditions for your peppers.

Temperature

Red Savina Peppers prefer warm temperatures between 70-80°F (21-27°C). They are sensitive to frost, so it is important to wait until after the last frost date in your area before transplanting them into your garden.

Sunlight

These peppers require full sun exposure for at least 6-8 hours daily. Make sure to choose a spot in your garden that receives ample sunlight.

Watering

Red Savina Peppers need consistent moisture, but be careful not to overwater them. The soil should never be allowed to dry out completely, but waterlogging the plant should also be avoided.

Fertilizer

A balanced fertilizer with equal nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium promotes healthy growth and fruit production. It is recommended to fertilize every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.

Planting of Planting Red Savina Pepper

Now that you have prepared your garden bed for planting Red Savina Peppers, it’s time to get them into the ground! Here are some steps to follow:

1. Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil.
2. If you are starting from seeds, plant them indoors about 8-10 weeks before the last frost date.
3. Transplant seedlings into your garden once they have developed their first set of true leaves.
4. Space plants about 18-24 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation.
5. Water the plants well after transplanting to help them establish in their new environment.
6. Mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
7. You may need to support the peppers by staking or using a tomato cage as they grow.
8. Regularly check for pests and diseases and take appropriate measures to control them.
9. Harvest peppers when they reach their desired size and color, usually about 80-100 days after transplanting.
10. Enjoy your delicious homegrown Red Savina Peppers in your favorite recipes!

Other Considerations

Here are a few other things to keep in mind when growing Red Savina Peppers:

• These peppers can also be grown in containers, but make sure the container has good drainage and is at least 18 inches deep.
• If you live in a colder climate, you can start your plants indoors and move them outside once the weather warms up.
• Prune off any dead or diseased branches to keep the plant healthy.
• Be aware that Red Savina Peppers are hot with a Scoville Heat Unit rating of up to 577,000. Handle them cautiously, and always wear gloves when harvesting or handling the peppers.
• If you plan on saving seeds from your Red Savina Peppers, let them fully ripen on the plant before harvesting. Wash and dry the seeds thoroughly before storing them in a cool, dry place.
• These peppers can also be dried and ground into a powder for use in spice blends or hot sauces.
• Rotate your pepper plants to a different location yearly to prevent diseases and maintain soil health.
• Consider companion planting with herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme to help deter pests and attract beneficial insects. 

Transplanting Red Savina Pepper Seedlings

As the last frost date approaches, your Red Savina Pepper seedlings will be ready to be transplanted into the garden. It is important to harden off your seedlings before planting them outside, as they may suffer from shock if moved directly from indoors to outdoors. 

To harden off your seedlings, gradually expose them to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days. Start by placing them in a sheltered location for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the time spent outdoors. This will allow the seedlings to acclimate to outdoor temperatures, wind, and sunlight. 

When choosing a location for your Red Savina Peppers, ensure it receives full sun and has well-draining soil. Red Savina Peppers are heavy feeders, so it is important to amend the soil with compost or aged manure before planting. 

Dig a hole for each seedling, ensuring it is deep enough to accommodate the root ball. Gently remove the seedlings from their containers and place them in the holes, filling in with soil around the roots. Water well after planting to help settle the soil around the roots and eliminate air pockets. 

Caring for Red Savina Pepper Plants

Once your Red Savina Pepper plants are established, they require minimal maintenance. However, watching them and providing the necessary care for healthy growth and abundant harvest is important. Here are some tips for caring for your Red Savina Pepper plants:

Red Savina Pepper plants require consistent moisture to produce healthy and flavorful peppers. Water the plants deeply once a week or more frequently if there is a drought or extreme temperatures. However, be sure not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. 

Fertilizing your Red Savina Pepper plants every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer will help ensure they have the nutrients they need to flourish. Look for any signs of pests or diseases, such as aphids or powdery mildew, and take immediate action if necessary. Natural pest control methods, such as neem oil or diatomaceous earth, can protect your plants without harmful chemicals. 

Pruning your Red Savina Pepper plants can help promote growth and increase the number of peppers produced. Once the plant has grown to about 6 inches tall, pinch off the top leaves, forming a slight “V” shape. This will encourage lateral branches to grow, leading to more peppers. You can also remove any damaged or diseased leaves as needed throughout the season. 

As the peppers begin to grow, it is important to support the heavy branches. Staking or using a tomato cage can help prevent breakage and keep the plants upright. It is also helpful to regularly remove any excess foliage around the base of the plant to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of disease. 

Pest and Disease Control

One of the biggest threats to Red Savina Pepper plants is aphids. These small insects feed on the plant sap, causing damage and stunting growth. They can also transmit viruses to the plant, leading to even more issues. You can use natural garden predators such as ladybugs or lacewings to control aphids. Alternatively, you can make homemade insecticidal soap using water, dish soap, and neem oil. This can be sprayed onto the leaves of the plant to deter aphids. 

Another common issue faced by pepper plants is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white or gray powder on the leaves and stems of the plant. It thrives in warm, humid conditions and can quickly spread throughout a garden if left untreated. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure adequate spacing between plants to promote airflow and remove any affected leaves immediately. You can also use fungicides specifically designed for powdery mildew control. 

Harvesting Red Savina Peppers 

When the peppers have reached their full size and color, they are ready to be picked. Depending on your climate, this can range from 90-120 days after planting. Red Savina Peppers can reach up to 2 inches in length and should feel firm when gently squeezed. If left on the plant too long, the peppers may shrink or turn brown. It is important to harvest your peppers regularly to encourage the plant to continue producing more fruit. 

When harvesting, use sharp scissors or pruning shears to carefully cut the pepper from the stem, leaving a small amount of stem attached. Be careful not to damage other peppers or plants while picking. Avoid handling the peppers with bare hands as they can cause skin irritation due to their high capsaicin content. Wear gloves or wash your hands thoroughly after handling. 

Storing Red Savina Peppers

To enjoy your Red Savina Peppers for a longer period, it is important to store them properly. Here are some tips for storing your peppers:

1. Harvest peppers when ripe: Red Savina Peppers are ready to be harvested when they have reached their full color and size. Twist or cut the pepper off the plant at the stem.
2. Air-dry before storage: Allow your peppers to air dry for a few days before storing. This will help remove any excess moisture and prevent mold growth.
3. Refrigerate or freeze: Place the peppers in a plastic bag and store them in the refrigerator for short-term storage. They can last up to a week this way. If you want to store them for longer periods, consider freezing them. Wash, dry, and freeze the peppers in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
4. Consider pickling: Pickling is another great way to preserve your Red Savina Peppers. Pack them into jars with vinegar, salt, and spices and store them in a cool place for several months.

Uses for Red Savina Peppers

Red Savina Peppers are known for their intense heat and the unique flavor they add to dishes. Here are some ideas on how to use your peppers:

1. Add them to sauces and marinades: The concentrated heat and flavor of Red Savina Peppers make them a great addition to sauces and marinades. They can take your dishes to the next level, especially if you enjoy spicy food.
2. Make hot sauce: You can also make your homemade hot sauce using Red Savina Peppers. Blend them with vinegar, garlic, and other ingredients for a fiery and flavorful sauce.
3. Spice up your soups and stews: Red Savina Peppers can add a delicious kick to your soups and stews. Just be sure to use them sparingly, as they are very hot.
4. Add them to dips: If you love spicy dips, add some finely chopped Red Savina Peppers to your favorite dip recipes for an extra punch of heat.
5. Make infused oils: Infused oils are a great way to flavor dishes. You can create your spicy oil by infusing it with Red Savina Peppers and using it in cooking or as a dipping sauce.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Red Savina Peppers are not only one of the hottest peppers in the world but also have a unique and delicious flavor. Whether you grow or purchase them from a specialty store, there are many ways to enjoy and preserve these fiery peppers. From drying and freezing to pickling and making hot sauce, incorporating Red Savina Peppers into your cooking can add a new level of heat and flavor to your dishes. So, to add spice to your meals, consider using Red Savina Peppers for a truly unforgettable experience. So go ahead and experiment with these peppers in different recipes and unleash their fiery potential! Happy cooking! 

Craving a flavor adventure? Meet Capsicum Chinense – the pepper that’s anything but ordinary! Eager to learn more? Explore our article, where we unravel the story of Capsicum Chinense, its spicy flavor profile, and how it can add a thrilling twist to your favorite recipes.