Hainan Yellow Lantern

Hainan Yellow Lantern, also known as Yellow Emperor chilli, is a Capsicum chinense variety indigenous to Hainan Island, China. It is traditionally grown in the southwest and southeast regions of the island and is closely associated with local food culture.

Plants produce lantern-shaped pods measuring approximately 5 centimetres long and 3 centimetres wide. Fruits mature to a bright yellow colour and are strongly aromatic, with a scent and flavour comparable to habanero-type peppers.

Heat levels are high, commonly reaching around 300,000 Scoville Heat Units. The pepper is primarily processed into hot sauces and pastes for regional cuisine. In 2009, researchers at the Chinese Tropical Agriculture Institute developed a high-yielding cultivar, significantly increasing production while retaining the core traits of the original variety.