Bred exclusively by Frank Garcia at GNS Spices, incendiary Red Savina is the hottest habanero known, tipping the scale at 380,000 to 500,000 Scoville units which put it in the Guinness Book of World Records. Along with brilliant red color and intense heat, Red Savina's flesh has that special tantalizing fiery fruitiness that characterizes habanero chilies from the Yucatán. The Chinese lantern-shaped fruits grow on sturdy 3 to 3 1/2 foot plants that do best in long hot summer areas.
| Sow Seeds Indoors |
Days to Germinate |
Transplant Outdoors in Full Sun |
Mature Height |
Transplant to Harvest |
| Feb.-March |
10 - 21 days |
April-June |
3-3.5 ft. |
Approx. 90 days |
STARTING SEEDLINGS
Start seeds indoors in early spring, about 7-8 weeks before night temperatures are reliably above 50F (10C). Sow seeds 1/4 in. deep and 1 in. apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist but not soggy and very warm 80-85F (27-29C). Provide a strong light source. When seedlings are 2 in. tall, transplant 3 in. apart into deeper containers. Maintain at 70-75F (21-24C). Feed with half strength fertilizer every other week until weather is warm. Gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions. Transplant 2 ft. apart into rich, well amended soil in full sun.
GROWING NOTES
Habaneros need warm conditions. Don't transplant outdoors until night temperatures stay securely above 55F (13C). Prepare soil well with aged manure or compost. Plant only robust seedlings with well-developed roots. Mulch plants to maintain even soil moisture. Keep well weeded, water and fertilize regularly, about every two weeks throughout the growing season. Chiles will be hottest grown in hot summer areas.
HARVEST AND USE
Important: Always wear eye protection and gloves when cutting open or chopping hot chilies. Enjoy Red Savina's marvelous fruity heat in salsas (especially combined with fruits), soups, jerk rubs and marinades. One Chile will season the whole pot!
Note: GNS Spices exclusive. Red Savina cannot be grown for resale.
