- List of capsicum cultivars
This is a list of
capsicum varieties, cultivars, and breeds. The hotness of the fruit in this list is indicated in theScoville scale , which ranges from no heat at zero to purecapsaicin at 16,000,000.The four major species are:
*"Capsicum annuum ", which includes bell peppers, cayenne, paprika, and jalapeños
*"Capsicum chinense ", which includes habaneros
*"Capsicum frutescens ", which includes tabasco
*"Capsicum pubescens ", which includes rocoto."Capsicum annuum"
"Capsicum annuum" is a popular species native to
South America . It is cultivated world-wide. Despite being a single species, the capsicum annum has many forms, with a variety of names, even in the same language. InAmerican English it is commonly known as thechili pepper , although not all varieties would be recognized by most speakers under this name. InBritish English , the sweet varieties are called "peppers" [http://www.waitrose.com/food/cookingandrecipes/cookinglibraries/glossary/glossary.aspx?type=0&id=250] and the hot varieties "chillies" [http://www.waitrose.com/food/cookingandrecipes/cookinglibraries/glossary/glossary.aspx?type=0&id=92] , whereas inAustralian English the name "capsicum" is commonly used for bell peppers exclusively and "chilli" is often used to encompass the hotter varieties. Its forms are varied, from large to small, sweet to sour, very hot to bland.The plant is a
herbaceous annual, with a densely branched stem. The plant reaches 0.5–1.5 m (20–60 in). Single white flowers bear the fruit which is green when unripe, changing principally to red, although some varieties may ripen to brown or purple. While the species can tolerate most climates, they are especially productive in warm and dry climates."Capsicum baccatum"
These have a distinctive, fruity flavor, and are commonly ground into colorful powders for use in cooking, each identified by its color.
"Capsicum pubescens"
"Capsicum pubescens" is among the oldest of domesticated peppers, and was grown up to 5000 years ago. It is probably related to undomesticated plants that still grow in
South America (cardenasii, eximium, and others).References
* [http://www.g6csy.net/chile/database.html Chile database] : Used as source for information on various cultivars in this article.
Wikimedia Foundation. 2010.