Tepin (Chiltepin’s cousin) is tiny wild pepper. Rating 50,000-100,000 SHU offers intense but brief heat. These round peppers are among smallest cultivated. Known as ‘bird pepper’ because birds eat and spread them. The heat is sharp but doesn’t linger as long as cultivated varieties. Important in Southwest USA and Mexican cuisine. Often gathered wild rather than cultivated. Complex flavor with fruity notes. The tiny size is deceptive. Cultural and culinary importance in borderlands.

Very hot, brief heat

Wild pepper, salsas, seasoning