Description
Chilli Name: CGN 20805 (PI 260596)
Chilli Species: Praetermissum
Chilli Origin: Brazil
Chilli Heat: Very Hot
CGN 20805, also known by its USDA accession PI 260596, is a unique chilli from the wild species Capsicum praetermissum, originally collected in Brazil. This variety represents the untamed side of the chilli world — closer to its ancestral roots than the fully domesticated varieties we know today.
The plant is a true standout: bushy, resilient, and naturally ornamental, with delicate purple-streaked flowers that are characteristic of praetermissum. It produces a generous crop of small, upright pods that ripen from green through deep purples and reds, often with an almost metallic sheen. The pods are usually pea-sized and can be deceptively hot — typically ranging between 30,000 to 60,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU).
CGN 20805 is especially valued for its hardiness and perennial growth. In warm or protected environments, it can live for several years, continuously flowering and fruiting. The plant is also known to resist pests better than many modern varieties, making it an excellent choice for sustainable growing and breeding programmes.
While not ideal for large-scale culinary use due to the small size of the fruit, this chilli is perfect for ornamental gardens, cross-breeding projects, or anyone keen to explore the biodiversity of the Capsicum genus. CGN 20805 is a living link to the wild origins of chillies — beautiful, bold, and built to survive.
