‘Golden Nugget’ is a favourite “hot” pepper variety going way back to when I was a rooftop gardener. It’s a fruity flavoured little pepper with a bit of heat that can be used fresh or dried. I’ve found it to be very good infused in vinegar or tossed into a mixed vegetable pickle for a little kick of heat.

On top if its flavour attributes, I think what has kept me coming back to grow it again and again is its beauty. This plant is a stunner! It grows about a foot and a half tall, developing light splashes of white variegation with purple streaks that run through the leaves and stems. The flowers are purple, too. And when the fruit comes on you are rewarded with bundles of small, lantern-shaped peppers that transition from deep green and purple to bright orange.

The Details:

• Open-pollinated
• SHU: 80,000
• Final height is about 1 1/2 to 2 feet.
• Grow in full sun in well-draining soil. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings.
• Days to maturity: 75-85
• Originally from Martha Perry of Pontiac Michigan.
• Save seed from ripe, unblemished fruit.
• Fruit forms dark green/purple and transforms to bright orange. Harvest once this colour has developed.
• Container Growing: Great container variety. This is a tall plant so choose a pot that is at least 12″ deep.
• Overwinter indoors near a bright light source. I keep mine in a large south-facing window. Bring indoors well before the hard frost hits your region.