Chilli 'Elefant' – Long Fruits with Distinctive Corky Skin
'Elefant' is a traditional, open-pollinated Capsicum annuum variety from the Balkan region. It is especially widespread in Bulgaria, North Macedonia and Kosovo, where it has been grown for decades as a reliable garden and kitchen staple. In the trade, it is also known as Pepperoni Elefant.
The plants grow bushy and reach a height of around 60 to 100 cm, depending on site conditions. They produce numerous very long, conical fruits, typically measuring between 18 and 20 cm in length. The flesh is exceptionally thick and juicy, making the pods feel noticeably heavier than many other long-fruited chillies.
A distinctive feature of this variety is its rough, cracked skin with corky tissue, reminiscent of elephant hide. This unique texture is characteristic of the cultivar, helps protect the fruit from drying out, and gives 'Elefant' its unmistakable appearance. The pods ripen from green to a deep red.
In terms of flavour, this mild to medium-hot chilli offers a rich, fruity taste. It is ideal for eating fresh, grilling and stuffing, as well as for pickling or drying. Thanks to its balanced heat, 'Elefant' is a highly versatile chilli variety for everyday culinary use.
