Bishop’s Crown

Written by on in Chilli Pepper Varieties

The Bishop’s Crown, also known as the Christmas Bell pepper or the Bishop’s Hat pepper, is a unique and visually striking chili pepper variety.

Bishop's crown

Bishop’s Crown (Capsicum Baccatum)

  1. Appearance: The Bishop’s Crown pepper has a distinctive shape resembling a crown of a bishop or a bell with multiple lobes. It has a broad base that tapers to a point at the top, creating a bell-like appearance. The pepper’s skin is smooth and glossy, and it typically ranges in color from bright green to vibrant red when fully ripe.
  2. Size: Bishop’s Crown peppers are generally medium-sized compared to other chili varieties. They usually measure around 2 to 3 inches in length and width, although occasionally, you can find larger specimens.
  3. Flavor Profile: Bishop’s Crown peppers offer a unique flavor profile that combines sweetness with a mild to moderate level of heat. The peppers have a fruity and slightly tangy taste, reminiscent of bell peppers, with a subtle spicy kick. This flavor profile makes them versatile for use in a variety of culinary applications.
  4. Heat Level: Bishop’s Crown peppers are considered moderately spicy but are milder than some of the more intense chili pepper varieties like habaneros or ghost peppers. Their Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) rating typically ranges from 5,000 to 30,000 SHU, placing them in the lower to mid-range of heat on the Scoville scale.
  5. Culinary Uses: People prize Bishop’s Crown peppers for their unique appearance and flavor, making them popular in both culinary and ornamental applications. You can use them fresh in salads, salsas, and relishes, or cook them in dishes like stir-fries, soups, and stuffed peppers. Their distinct shape and vibrant color also make them an attractive choice for garnishing and decorating dishes.
  6. Growing Habits: Home gardeners find Bishop’s Crown pepper plants relatively easy to grow. They require warm temperatures, plenty of sunlight, and well-drained soil to thrive. With proper care, it’s plants can produce a bountiful harvest of peppers throughout the growing season.

Overall, because of its unique appearance, mild heat, and versatile flavor, making it a favorite among chili enthusiasts and culinary adventurers alike. Whether used fresh or cooked, it adds a distinctive touch to dishes and is sure to impress with its striking appearance and delightful flavor.

  • Origin: Barbados
  • Scoville scale: 10k SHU
  • Species: Capsicum Baccatum

See also