This new cross of ours has very productive plants. Plants are medium size and carry they pods under the foliage. Plants have very good yields of very hot but sweet pods coming from the cross of a ghost and Trinidad Congo. Pods are medium to large and are larger then both the parents. Pods are medium walled and dry out pretty good and make very good powder.

Capsicum Chinense 

SHU 1,200,000 -/+

APS GHOST X TRINIDAD CONGO ORANGE - The Orange Fusion

**Basic Info**  

Species: *Capsicum chinense*  

Origin: Atlantic Pepper Seeds (APS) breeding program  

Heat: Super-Hot (1,000,000-1,200,000 SHU, estimated)  

Type: Hybrid of Ghost × Trinidad Congo  

**Story**  

The APS Ghost × Trinidad Congo Orange is a sophisticated cross that merges the legendary ghost pepper lineage with the Congo Trinidad variety, a lesser-known but equally formidable superhot from Trinidad's rich pepper heritage. The Congo Trinidad, measuring 1-1.2 million SHU, is prized for its pronounced fruity-floral flavor that distinguishes it from many other superhots.  

Trinidad has long been recognized as ground zero for extreme pepper genetics, with its warm, humid climate producing intense capsaicin expression that breeders worldwide actively seek. The Congo Trinidad specifically carries African cultural influences in its name, reflecting the island's diverse culinary traditions. When crossed with the Ghost Pepper, this hybrid aims to combine the ghost's reliable heat with the Congo's complex flavor profile.  

The 'Orange' designation indicates the pods mature to a vibrant orange hue - a color that signals peak flavor development in many *chinense* varieties. Orange pods often carry slightly different flavor nuances compared to red variants, with some growers reporting brighter, more citrus-forward notes. This color progression from green through yellow to orange makes for a stunning visual display in any pepper garden.  

What sets this cross apart is its potential for culinary versatility. The fruity-floral character of the Congo Trinidad survives light cooking better than many superhots, making it suitable for applications where flavor matters as much as heat. The ghost pepper contribution ensures the heat remains extreme, while the Congo influence adds complexity that prevents the pepper from being merely a heat challenge.  

For gardeners, this variety offers both the thrill of extreme heat and the bonus of ornamental value. The orange pods stand out beautifully against dark foliage, creating conversation pieces in any collection. However, they require experienced handling due to their extreme heat - gloves and eye protection are essential during harvest and processing.  

**Plant**  

Medium to large (3-4 feet), bushy, typical *chinense* growth.  

**Pods**  

2-3 inches long, bright orange when ripe, classic ghost/scorpion shape.  

**Flavor**  

Fruity, floral notes with intense heat.  

**Kitchen**  

Hot sauces, tropical fruit blends, dried powder.  

**Growing Tips**  

- 90-120 days to maturity  

- Full sun (8+ hours)  

- Warm climate, zones 10-11  

- Well-draining soil, consistent watering  

**Culinary Uses**  

- Hot sauce production with tropical fruits  

- Dried powder  

- Specialty seasoning  

**Common Questions**  

Q: What heat level is this cross?  

A: 1M-1.2M SHU based on parent varieties.  

Q: Why orange color?  

A: Indicates peak flavor with visual distinction.  

Q: Is it good for cooking?  

A: Yes, fruity notes survive light cooking.  

Q: What makes it unique?  

A: Combines ghost heat with Congo floral complexity.