Cola de Rata - 15 Seeds

Cola de Rata (Cola de Rata), also known as Rat’s Tail (Rat’s Tail) and Chile de Arbol (Chile de Arbol), is a vigorous hot pepper Capsicum annuum with slender red fruits about 10 cm long and 1 cm wide. The plant reaches 120 cm and develops thick, strong, woody stems, hence the name “Chile de Arbol” – “tree-like chilli”. The heat is substantial – 30 000–50 000 SHU.

Cola de Rata / Rat’s Tail /Chile de Arbol is distinguished by its elongated red fruits and strong, almost tree-like growth. The peppers ripen relatively slowly and the variety loves warmth, so a greenhouse is the safest choice for a good, fully ripe harvest.

Variety characteristics

• Name: Cola de Rata (Cola de Rata)
• Other names: Rat’s Tail (Rat’s Tail) / Chile de Arbol (Chile de Arbol)
• Botanical species: Capsicum annuum
• Type: Hot pepper
• Heat level: 30 000–50 000 SHU
• Fruit length: about 10 cm
• Width: about 1 cm
• Colour at maturity: Red
• Height: up to about 120 cm
• Growth: Vigorous and upright
• Stems: Thick, strong and woody
• Requirements: Warmth-loving variety with a longer ripening period
• Suitable for drying: Yes.

🔥 Heat

30 000–50 000 SHU

This is a very hot pepper, offering considerably more heat than Jalapeño. 

🌱 Sowing and growing

Sowing: January – April
Germination temperature: 20–30°C
Planting: in a greenhouse or outdoors around the end of May
Recommended location: greenhouse, due to the need for warmth and the long ripening period
Height: up to 120 cm
Support: taller plants can be tied to stakes
Pruning: possible for a more compact form.

In autumn, the plants can be moved into pots and continue fruiting on a bright windowsill.

☀️ Drying and use

The thin fruits are particularly suitable for drying. Traditionally, they are strung together and left to dry, after which they can be stored whole or ground.

Fructele uscate sunt excelente pentru chilli flakes, hot powder, sauces, marinades, soups and spicy dishes. For this variety, drying is one of the most interesting uses.

💡 Urban Botaniks tip: For Rat’s Tail / Cola de Rata / Chile de Arbol we emphasise the thin 10-centimetre fruits, vigorous tree-like growth and excellent suitability for drying . Provide the warmest, sunniest possible location and, if possible, use a greenhouse—the variety has a longer ripening period, which is especially important during our shorter warm season.