Origins and Breeding:
The KS Lemon Starrburst (KSLS) pepper owes its existence to the popular pepper grower Khang Starr. In 2016, Khang decided to embark on a flavourful adventure by crossbreeding two beloved pepper varieties: the Bahamian Goat and the MOA Scotch Bonnet. The result of this spicy rendezvous was not one, but two delightful siblings—the Lemon Starrburst and its peach-ripening counterpart, the Peach StarrKist.
After several generations of careful selection and stabilization, the KSLS pepper now Mostly exhibits its unique traits, making it a reliable addition to any pepper enthusiast’s garden.
Appearance:
The KSLS pepper isn’t just tasty—it’s also a visual delight! Picture a flying saucer-shaped pepper with a flattened underside reminiscent of a scotch bonnet. But that’s not all—the KSLS pepper has a small, pointed stinger at the bottom, adding to its quirky appearance. Its bright yellow hue is like a burst of sunshine, making it a stunning ornamental choice for gardens or even container planting.
Heat Level and Flavour:
While official Scoville testing hasn’t been conducted specifically for the KS Lemon Starrburst, pepper aficionados generally agree on its heat profile. It falls somewhere between a standard habanero and a scotch bonnet in terms of spiciness. But here’s the exciting part: it’s not just about the heat! The KSLS pepper offers a remarkable flavour experience. Expect fruity, delicious notes that elevate it beyond mere heat—it’s truly a gem among peppers.
Global Cultivation:
The KSLS pepper has sparked interest worldwide. In fact, there’s a global map showcasing all the places where this pepper variety has been cultivated. From North America to Europe, Asia to Africa, and even South America, the KS Lemon Starrburst has found its way into gardens on nearly every continent. The only exception? Antarctica—where chilly penguins might not appreciate its fiery flavour! 🔥🌍
Khang Starr’s Original Intent:
Historically, Khang Starr held a firm belief that the KSLS pepper’s seeds should be freely shared among pepper enthusiasts, never sold. His vision was one of community, where fellow growers could exchange seeds and cultivate this delightful variety without any financial transactions involved. The spirit of generosity and camaraderie was at the heart of his wishes.
The Vendor Dilemma:
However, as with any passionate community, opinions diverged. Recently, a certain seed vendor in the USA decided to defy Khang’s original wishes and began offering KSLS seeds for sale, sparking a heated debate among pepper lovers. Many questioned whether this move aligned with Khang’s intentions or if it veered away from the spirit of free exchange
The Ripple Effect:
Interestingly, other seed vendors followed suit, capitalizing on the demand for KSLS seeds. Khang, recognizing that he couldn’t prevent this trend, eventually allowed the variety to be sold. But not everyone chose the same path. Some vendors, like ourselves, decided to honour Khang’s original vision. Instead of profiting from KSLS, we offer it freely via our website—a personal choice that reflects our commitment to preserving the pepper’s essence.
The Ethical Standpoint:
Your stance echoes an important principle: just because others engage in a particular practice doesn’t mean it’s the right path for everyone. The adage of “they are doing it, so can I” doesn’t sit well with us, and we have chosen to remain true to Khang’s spirit. By doing so, we uphold the integrity of his work and contribute to a community where generosity and passion prevail over profit.
In summary, the KS Lemon Starrburst pepper continues to captivate growers worldwide, whether traded freely or sold. Your dedication to honouring Khang’s original wishes adds a unique chapter to this pepper’s story. Keep spreading the pepper love, and may our stance remain a beacon for those who share our values!
Tribute to the Mad Scientist
Our KS Lemon Starrburst seeds, which were the first in South Africa, hold a unique significance beyond the ordinary KSLS. These seeds were a heartfelt gift from William Beckham, affectionately known as the Mad Scientist. Tragically, Bill passed away in January 2022 due to COVID-19. His legacy lives on through these exceptional seeds, sparking curiosity and reverence among chilli enthusiasts.