Description
Chilli Name: CAP 1473
Chilli Species: Praetermissum
Chilli Origin: Brazil
Chilli Heat: Hot
CAP 1473 Chilli — A Rare and Wild Beauty from Brazil’s Capsicum praetermissum Gene Pool
CAP 1473 is a rare accession from the Capsicum praetermissum species, collected in Brazil and maintained through the CAPS (Chile Pepper Institute) collection. Like others in this wild species, CAP 1473 showcases the unique combination of heat, hardiness, and ornamental elegance that sets praetermissum apart from both domesticated and other wild chillies.
The plant is naturally bushy and compact, with dark foliage, purple-tinged stems, and stunning purple-flushed flowers — a signature of the species. It produces an abundance of tiny, upright pods, round to oval in shape, which ripen from green through deep purple tones to a brilliant red. These small fruits carry a surprising heat level of around 30,000–60,000 SHU, making them ideal for hot sauces or fermentations where intense flavour is needed in small doses.
What makes CAP 1473 especially appealing is its perennial nature and resilience. It performs well in a range of conditions, including cooler or marginal climates, and is naturally resistant to many pests and diseases. These qualities have made praetermissum accessions like CAP 1473 valuable for breeding projects, especially those exploring disease resistance and low-input growing systems.
Whether you're a collector, a grower looking to diversify your chilli patch, or a breeder working with wild Capsicum traits, CAP 1473 is a rare and rewarding plant — a living link to South America's rich chilli heritage.
