Kanthari Mirchi

Capsicum frutescens • Kanthari Chili
Tested in Warm California

Grow small, fiery violet kanthari chilies for chutneys, tempering, and bold everyday cooking.

Kanthar chili seed packet (Violet)

Easy Grow Info

Like most frutescens types, plants prefer consistent warmth and become more productive as temperatures rise.
Sun
Full sun
Type
Warm season annual
Start Method
Start indoors; transplant after frost
Height
2–3 ft

About This Chili

Purple kanthari is an upright birds-eye type chili known for intense heat and striking dark purple fruits that mature toward red. Often harvested early for fresh use, these slender chilies bring sharp spice to chutneys, tempering oil, and quick sautéed dishes.

Compact, branching plants are highly ornamental while remaining productive, making them well suited to containers, patios, and warm-climate gardens where both appearance and performance matter.

Heat Level

Very Hot — typically 75,000–100,000 Scoville Heat Units.

Sharp, fast heat that builds quickly; use sparingly for fresh cooking and tempering.

Why We Chose This Variety

We grow purple kanthari for gardeners who want the same sharp heat as the green type, just with a little extra color in the garden.

Compact plants produce steadily and do especially well in containers, giving you a steady supply of fresh purple chilies.

Grower’s Corner

Grower’s Corner: How to Grow Hot Chilies in Warm-Climate Gardens

Read the full guide on Grower’s Corner.

Grower’s Corner • 5–7 min read
Read the guide

Related

Kanthari Mirchi – Masala Central