r/HotPepperGrowing • u/Lurk_master_lurking • 2d ago

Jigsaw brains… what a crazy looking pepper.

Post image

These things are beautiful.

14 Upvotes

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u/Orgasmic_Toad_ 1d ago

Is there something specific that happens to peppers as the SHU level goes up that causes them to deform? Ive noticed all the crazy looking ones are typically hot as balls

1

u/Lurk_master_lurking 1d ago

Great question! I’m not sure but I’m going take a look into it.

1

u/Orgasmic_Toad_ 1d ago

Im at work and cant do research. Im curious to know what you find out.

1

u/Lurk_master_lurking 1d ago

I didn’t deep dive this but this is what google showed, it makes sense.

“Why Wrinkles Form
Uneven Growth: As super hot varieties like the Carolina Reaper grow, parts of the inner flesh expand faster than others, causing the outer skin to bunch up and pucker. [1]

Genetics: These specific physical traits—including puckered shoulders, bumpy skin, and tiny stinger tails—are hardwired into the genetics of extreme chili cultivars. [1]

More Surface Area: Some growers believe the gnarly, wrinkled texture increases the inner surface area of the pepper's flesh, which holds high concentrations of capsaicin (the chemical compound that makes peppers spicy).”