Chilli Pepper Demon Red Seeds - Extremely Hot Compact Variety (173,000 SHU)

Chilli Pepper ‘Demon Red’ Seeds

Demon Red is an award-winning, extremely hot chilli pepper prized for its compact habit, exceptional productivity, and intense heat. This RHS-recognised variety is ideal for patio containers, pot production, and small growing spaces, while still delivering serious fire and flavour.

Plants stay very compact yet produce an astonishing 100+ small, upright fruits per plant. The chillies grow to around 4 cm long, ripening from bright green to vivid red, and pack a powerful heat of approximately 173,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). Their upward-facing habit creates a striking ornamental display, making Demon Red as attractive as it is fiery.

Best finished in 9 cm pots for commercial sales before potting on into larger containers, Demon Red performs reliably in greenhouses or outdoors in pots in warm, sheltered conditions.

Key Features

Award-winning hot chilli pepper variety (UK RHS recognised)

Very compact plant habit — ideal for pots and patio containers

Produces 100+ upright fruits per plant

Fruits ripen from bright green to vibrant red

Extremely hot — around 173,000 SHU

Average fruit size 4 × 1 cm

Early maturity

Excellent for greenhouse growing or outdoor pots

How to Grow Chilli Pepper ‘Demon Red’

Sow seeds indoors from January to March using a heated propagator or warm windowsill. Maintain temperatures of 20–25°C for reliable germination. Sow thinly and cover lightly with compost.

Transplant seedlings into individual pots once large enough to handle. Plants are best finished in 9 cm pots for compact growth, or potted on into larger containers for extended cropping.

Grow in a greenhouse or place outdoors in a warm, sheltered position once all risk of frost has passed. Water regularly and feed weekly with a balanced or high-potash fertiliser once flowering begins.

Harvest fruits when fully red for maximum heat and flavour.

⚠️ Safety note: These chillies are extremely hot. Wear gloves when handling fruits and avoid touching eyes or skin. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How hot is Demon Red?
Demon Red reaches approximately 173,000 SHU, making it a very hot chilli suitable for experienced chilli lovers.

Is Demon Red suitable for container growing?
Yes. Its compact growth habit makes it ideal for patio pots, balconies, and small spaces.

Can it be grown outdoors in the UK?
Yes. It performs well outdoors in pots during warm summers, though greenhouse growing gives the most reliable yields.

Does Demon Red need support?
No — the compact plants generally do not require staking, even when heavily laden with fruit.

What is it best used for?
Perfect for hot salads, stir-fries, and Asian-style dishes, where intense heat is desired.