Chilli Capsicum annuum Buena Mulata

Similar in taste to a cayenne chilli, but with a fruitier, sweeter note. Chillies can be used at any stage or ripeness, with the gorgeous purple being the mildest flavour. An old American heirloom variety, rediscovered back in 1944.

Using a good quality, moist seed compost, sow your seeds in a propagator and cover with 6mm (¼in) compost. Place on a windowsill or in a greenhouse at approximately 21-24°C (70-75°F) to germinate, usually 7-14 days.

Transfer seedlings into 7.5cm (3in) pots and grow on. Once they are 15cm (6in) tall, transfer to 25cm (10in) pots and keep warm on a sunny patio or ideally, in a greenhouse (once all chance of frost has passed). Once the first fruit has set, feed every two weeks with tomato food and provide support with canes as fruit ripen.

HARVESTING;- July; August; September; October