Organic 'Damini' hot pepper
Organic 'Damini' hot pepper (Capsicum annuum) from the seed company Gaia, a small, upright Thai pepper, explosively hot and perfect for growing in a pot
The 'Damini' chili is a compact and highly productive Thai bird's eye chili , bearing numerous upright fruits 3 to 5 cm long, slender and elegant, which ripen from light green to bright red . Despite their small size, these chilies deliver an intense heat of 5,000 to 30,000 SHU , typical of Thai varieties used in stir-fries, curries, infused oils, or crushed chilies. Highly decorative, it is often sold as a Christmas chili , as its red clusters stand upright like small flames on the plant. Vigorous and easy to grow in pots, it offers an early and generous harvest, perfect for those who enjoy hot chilies in miniature form.
A chili pepper that proves a small size can hide a fiery temperament.
Companion plants : Alliums, Basil, Tomato, Spinach, Oregano, Marjoram, Nasturtium, Marigold
Nefarious plants : Broad beans, Brassicaceae, Fennel
Spread/Carry : Upright and compact
Plant height : 30 to 45 cm
Quantity per packet : 20 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Upright Thai chili, 3–5 cm, very hot (5,000–30,000 SHU), ideal for pots, sold as a Christmas chili
Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Lively, very spicy, aromatic
Cold tolerance : Not hardy
Farming method
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before planting time, at a depth of about 6 mm . Maintain a temperature of 27–31°C for successful germination, which typically occurs in 7 to 21 days. Harden off seedlings to 18–19°C , then plant out in full sun (level 3) with moderate watering (level 2). Space plants 30–45 cm apart, with 60–75 cm between rows. When growing in pots, choose a container of at least 3 liters to maximize production.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the chilies reach their final red color . Regular picking encourages a continuous production of fine, fiery fruits. Store them at 10-12°C with 95% relative humidity. They also dry very well for making Thai flakes or powders.
Usage ideas
• In Thai dishes (curries, stir-fries, pad kra pao)
• In very spicy infused oils
• For hot sauces or crushed chilies
• Dried into flakes for Asian seasoning
• In a pot on a balcony as a decorative chili pepper
The 'Damini' chili pepper is the very essence of the Thai chili: small, lively, fiery, and intensely aromatic. An ideal choice for lovers of Asian cuisine and for gardeners who want a compact yet incredibly hot chili pepper.
