Count Dacula

“Spooktacular Black Peppers! Unique & Ornamental.”

The Count Dracula pepper (Capsicum annuum) is an ornamental chili known for its striking, gothic appearance with dark foliage and pods that ripen from a deep, glossy black to blood-red. It is valued for its unique decorative qualities but also offers a usable medium heat and flavor. 

• Flavor: Often described as having a fruity sweetness with a slightly smoky and earthy undertone. While primarily ornamental, it has more flavor complexity than some other ornamental peppers.
• Heat: Moderate, with a range of 5,000–30,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). This places its heat level somewhere between a mild jalapeño and a standard cayenne, making it suitable for adding a kick to dishes without overwhelming them.
• Origin: The exact origin of the Count Dracula is unknown, but some sources suggest it may be a Romanian heirloom.
• Appearance: Its most notable feature is its dark aesthetic. The leaves are a deep, sometimes almost black, green, and the flowers are a beautiful violet or purple. The conical pods are about 2 inches long, emerging black and maturing to a vibrant, crimson red, with both colors often visible on the plant at once.
• Culinary Uses:
  • Hot Sauces and Salsas: Its heat and fruity, smoky flavor are well-suited for adding depth to hot sauces and salsas.
  • Drying: Can be dried and ground into a chili powder for seasoning.
  • Themed Dishes: The dark foliage and unique ripening of the pods make it a great addition to dishes for Halloween or other themed events.
  • Ornamental: Due to its dramatic foliage and colorful pods, it is widely grown for decorative purposes in gardens or containers.
    

The Count Dracula pepper is a truly unique and visually striking variety. This ornamental pepper boasts jet-black foliage and stunning purple flowers, creating a dramatic display in any garden. The 2-inch long, black peppers ripen to a vibrant blood red, adding further intrigue. While primarily grown for their ornamental value, these peppers offer a moderate heat level with a slightly fruity flavor.

Note: This pepper is primarily grown for its ornamental value, but the fruits are edible.