Description
Chilli Name: ZHONG ZIAO (PI 525493)
Chilli Species: Annuum
Chilli Origin: China
Chilli Heat: Hot
ZHONG ZIA (PI 525493)
Zhong Zia is a rare and intriguing chilli variety from China, part of the Capsicum annuum species. Officially catalogued under the USDA seed bank as PI 525493, this chilli showcases the diversity of Chinese pepper breeding, often overlooked outside the region. Plants typically grow upright with a compact habit, producing clusters of small, tapered pods that ripen from green to a deep red.
Heat-wise, Zhong Zia falls into the medium range, delivering a noticeable kick without overwhelming the palate. The flavour has a subtle vegetal sharpness with just a hint of fruitiness — ideal for stir-fries, pickling, or drying for powders. It thrives in warm, sunny climates and performs well in both containers and open soil, making it a flexible option for growers keen to explore lesser-known Asian varieties.
