A hot and spicy pepper, but not so hot you'll need to call the fire department. First ripe fruit takes 65 to 72 days from transplant. Glossy foliage minimizes water loss and contributes to low water needs for this plant. Fruit sets and matures quickly once ripe fruit begins to present. Fire Away Hot and Heavy has a Scoville value of 2100. Jalapenos are generally considered to measure between 2500 and 8000 Scoville units. The pepper has quite a bite, along the lines of what you would get with a mild Jalapeno.
STARTING SEEDLINGS In early spring, start indoors about 2 months before night temperatures stay reliably 50 to 55°. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist but not soggy, and very warm (80 to 85°). Provide a strong light source. When seedlings are 2 inches tall, transplant 2 to 3 inches apart into deeper containers. Maintain at 70 to 75°. Feed with half-strength fertilizer every 2 weeks until weather is warm enough to gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions. Transplant 2 feet apart into rich, well amended soil in full sun.
GROWING NOTES A hot pepper that works well in landscapes and containers. It may need trellising to maintain upright habit. Fruit transitions from geen to orange to red, with multiple colors represented on the plant at the same time. Fruits can be harvested when they begin to show good color and are fully ripe when solid red. Taste is pleasing if picked before full maturity. If you are growing this plant in a container, a 12" diameter (3 gallon volume) is the minimum necessary size. The ideal size would be a 14" to 18" (5-7 gallon) container.
HARVEST AND USE Important: Wear eye protection and gloves whenever you are handling fiery hot chiles. Enjoy Red Savina's marvelous fruity heat in salsas (especially combined with fruits), soups, jerk rubs and marinades. One chile will season a whole pot!
