Birdseye is also called the African Devil Chili. Birdseye chili is tiny, green and when matured the color changes to bright red. The spiciness varies depending the place and environmental condition it receives. It is widely available in African countries like Zimbabwe, Malawi and Kenya. They may appear small but they pack a burning punch and can contain between 50,000-100,000 Scoville Units, almost as hot as habanero.

Some sources state that the name “Birds Eye” comes from these chili bushes being started by birds picking and dropping the chilies. Birds don’t feel any effects from chili oil therefore they don’t get the burning sensation humans do.

Birds eye chilies are one of the easiest species to grow and maintain. They are a thick bush with a lightweight fruit and they are very forgiving. They can grow in sandy soil conditions, as well as in rich soil conditions. As with every other chili they enjoy humid climates and moisture.

These chilies can withstand cold climates too, even down to -20 °C. They will lose all their leaves but when spring comes they will re-shoot and fruit. Birds eye bushes will mature and fruit very quickly. It takes about between 90-120 days and the bushes are known to last several years.