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ZEBRANGE. A rare variety of baccatum pepper, combining ornamental value and excellent taste. The fruits are large, sweet, with a distinct fruity aroma and pleasant crunchy flesh. Its flavor is typical for baccatums: brightly fruity, refreshing, with a mild pungency that is perceived delicately and does not overpower the main dish. The main highlight is its coloration. During ripening, the pods acquire a rich orange color with contrasting red stripes, and later can transition to more reddish hues. Such "zebra-like" coloring makes the fruits decorative and noticeable both on the bush and in prepared dishes.
In appearance, Zebrange is often compared to Sugar Rush Stripey, but it possesses its own recognizable character. Pungency ranges between 5,000-10,000 SHU on the Scoville scale, which is below the level of a jalapeño or at its lower boundary. This allows for wide use of the pepper: it adds a light piquancy to dishes, remaining comfortable even for those who dislike strong heat. Fruity and slightly tropical notes, reminiscent of aji peppers, are well discernible in the flavor. The variety was created by the Belgian breeder Laurent Mine and is the result of crossing Aji Fantasy and Christmas Bell (Bishop’s Crown).
From its parents, it inherited both a bright flavor and the unusual shape and color of the fruits. Despite the lack of official laboratory measurements, the heat level is consistently estimated in the range of 5-10 thousand Scoville units. The plants are vigorous and tall-growing, reaching over 1.2 m, thus requiring support. The bushes look very decorative and are often grown not only for harvest but also as garden ornaments. The fruits are excellent for sauces, salsa, salads, pickling, and also for stuffing. Thanks to its attractive appearance and mild heat, Zebrange is valued both among gourmets and collectors of unusual varieties.



