Trinidad Moruga Scorpion
1.5M SHU · Capsicum chinense
SuperhotHeat range
1.2M to 2.0M SHU. Typical: 1.5M SHU.
Individual peppers vary within this range based on growing conditions, ripeness, and genetic variation. See the Scoville scale guide for why the range matters.
Flavor and character
Trinidad Moruga Scorpion has flavors of fruity, floral, tender sweetness before extreme heat, very long burn.
The Trinidad Moruga Scorpion held the Guinness World Record briefly in 2012 with an average SHU over 1.2 million and individual peppers exceeding 2 million. It is named for the Moruga district in southern Trinidad and for its pointed, scorpion-stinger tail. The flavor is surprisingly pleasant for something this hot, with genuine tropical fruit sweetness and floral complexity before the heat engulfs everything. That heat is relentless and escalates for several minutes after consumption. The Scorpion is a favorite among hot sauce makers who want extreme heat with actual pepper flavor rather than just capsaicin extract. Wear gloves when handling; avoid touching your face for hours afterward.
How it’s used
Trinidad Moruga Scorpion is commonly used in extreme hot sauces, pepper powders, extract-based products.
What to use instead
These substitutions match heat, not flavor. Flavor character changes substantially between peppers. For custom quantities, use the substitution calculator.
Compare with another pepper
Other peppers to explore
Frequently asked questions
How hot is Trinidad Moruga Scorpion compared to a jalapeño?
Trinidad Moruga Scorpion at 1.5M SHU is roughly 300× hotter than a typical jalapeño (5,000 SHU). That is a significant difference in capsaicin concentration.
What does Trinidad Moruga Scorpion taste like?
Trinidad Moruga Scorpion has flavors of fruity, floral, tender sweetness before extreme heat, very long burn. Beyond the heat, these flavor notes distinguish it from other peppers at similar Scoville ratings.
Can I grow Trinidad Moruga Scorpion at home?
Yes, but Trinidad Moruga Scorpion requires a long growing season (140+ frost-free days) and warm temperatures. Start seeds indoors 12–14 weeks before last frost with a heat mat at 85°F. USDA zones 9+ are ideal; cooler zones need a greenhouse or large containers.
Is Trinidad Moruga Scorpion hotter than Carolina Reaper?
No. Carolina Reaper at 1.6M SHU typical is hotter than Trinidad Moruga Scorpion at 1.5M SHU. Compare them side by side on the comparison tool.
What's a good substitute for Trinidad Moruga Scorpion?
The closest substitutes are Ghost Pepper (Bhut Jolokia) and Carolina Reaper. These share similar heat ranges and compatible flavor profiles. For exact quantity ratios, use the substitution calculator.
What is Trinidad Moruga Scorpion's Scoville rating?
Trinidad Moruga Scorpion ranges from 1.2M to 2.0M SHU, with a typical measurement of 1.5M SHU. This range reflects natural variation in capsaicin production due to growing conditions, ripeness, and genetics.