Olho de Mutum (Capsicum chinense) 2L Pot

Olho de Mutum is a Brazilian chilli variety grown for its small fruit, strong heat and compact growth.

The name means “Eye of the Curassow” in Portuguese and refers to the appearance of the ripe peppers. The plant develops a branching habit with broad green leaves and small pale flowers.

The peppers are small and generally teardrop-shaped, developing orange-red to deep red colouring as they ripen. Colour and shape may vary between individual plants and seed lines.

Olho de Mutum has a fruity and aromatic flavour accompanied by strong heat. The peppers can be used in hot sauces, salsas, marinades and cooked dishes or dried for chilli flakes and powder.

In the UK, Olho de Mutum grows best in a greenhouse or polytunnel but can also be grown on a warm and sheltered patio.

Plant Details

Botanical name: Capsicum chinense
Common name: Olho de Mutum
Plant family: Solanaceae
Habit: Compact, bushy annual or tender perennial
Potential height: Approximately 60–100 cm under suitable conditions
Foliage: Broad green leaves
Flowers: Small pale flowers
Fruit: Small, teardrop-shaped peppers ripening to orange-red or deep red
Heat level: Hot to very hot
Position: Full sun
Suitable for: Greenhouses, polytunnels, patios and containers
Hardiness: Tender and not frost hardy

Growing Advice

Grow your Olho de Mutum in fertile, well-draining compost in a warm and bright position. Move the plant into a larger container if required to support continued growth and fruit production.

Keep the compost evenly moist during active growth. Avoid prolonged waterlogging and repeated wilting while the plant is flowering or carrying fruit.

Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser during early growth. Change to a high-potassium tomato feed once flowers or young peppers appear.

Plants grown outside should only be placed outdoors after the risk of frost has passed. Choose a warm position protected from strong winds and cool nights.

Olho de Mutum may be overwintered in a bright, frost-free position. Reduce watering while growth is slow.

Fruiting in the UK

Olho de Mutum can produce fruit successfully in the UK when provided with sufficient warmth and light.

Greenhouse or polytunnel cultivation provides the most reliable conditions for the peppers to develop their mature colour and flavour.

What You Will Receive

You will receive one Olho de Mutum Chilli plant growing in a 2-litre pot. Plants are typically dispatched at approximately 20–30 cm tall.

Plants may be supplied before flowering or fruiting. Fruit shape, colouring and heat will vary naturally.

Important Information

Olho de Mutum peppers are hot.

Wear gloves when harvesting, cutting or preparing the peppers. Avoid touching your eyes or face and wash your hands thoroughly after handling.