Carolina Reaper plants are small bushes that typically reach a height of about 0.9-1.2 meters (3-4 feet) tall. When fully grown, they have a bushy, spreading habit and can reach a similar width.
The leaves of the Carolina Reaper plant are a medium green color and are oval-shaped with pointed tips. They grow alternately along the stems and have a slightly fuzzy texture.
The flowers of the Carolina Reaper plant are small and white with five petals. They typically appear in clusters and are self-pollinating, meaning that the plant does not require cross-pollination from another plant.
As the flowers are pollinated, they develop into small green pods that eventually mature into the signature bright red Carolina Reaper peppers. The peppers are typically 2.5-5 centimeters (1-2 inches) long and have a distinctive wrinkled, bumpy texture.
A fully grown Carolina Reaper plant can produce dozens, if not hundreds, of peppers throughout the growing season, which typically lasts from mid-summer to early fall. However, it's worth noting that growing Carolina Reapers can be challenging, as the plants require a long growing season, plenty of sunshine, and consistent watering and fertilization to produce a bountiful crop.
Despite the challenges, many chili enthusiasts find that growing their own Carolina Reaper plants is a rewarding experience, and there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of harvesting a fresh crop of the world's hottest peppers from your own backyard.