Chilli Serrano Hildago

Serrano Hidalgo starts off dark green and ripens to red, with heat that builds as the fruit matures – from around 6,000 to 23,000 SHU. Fruits are typically 2.5–5cm long, thin-walled, and perfect for fresh use. A popular choice in Mexican sauces, salsas and relishes.

SOW: from mid-April to the end of May, indoors into warm compost, barely covering the seeds – they need light to germinate.

GROW: at the 2–3 leaf stage, plant into a greenhouse or harden off for a sunny, sheltered spot outdoors. Suitable for soil, containers or grow bags. Fruits ripen from dark green to red, with heat intensifying as they colour.

ENJOY: great for salsa and sauces – the thin skin means no need to peel. Use fresh or freeze for later.