Xinfeng Facing-Heaven Chili Peppers

Xinfeng Facing-Heaven Chili Peppers

　　Almost every household in the villages of Da’a, Xiaohe, and Datang towns in Xinfeng County grows facing-heaven chili peppers, with the total planting area exceeding 500 acres. The chili variety produced here is known as the facing-heaven chili, which is favored for its vibrant color, high quality, and strong spiciness. These chilies are sold to other provinces such as Guangdong and Hunan, becoming another avenue for “industrial prosperity and local wealth.” The facing-heaven chili * has tall plants, ranging from 0.8 to 1.2 meters in height, with multiple branching levels * single or double flowers grow in the leaf axils, with each node bearing one or two fruits that grow upward * the fruit is short conical in shape, measuring 2.5–4 cm in length and 0.4–0.6 cm in shoulder width, with firm flesh, high oil content, and intense spiciness * unripe fruits are greenish-white or yellowish-white, while ripe fruits are bright orange-red or orange-yellow * fresh chilies are suitable for processing into canned goods or drying into chili flakes. They are especially ideal as ingredients for hot pot and boiled fish dishes.