“The 6–7”
Between No. 6 (7-Pot Brain Strain) and No. 7 (Trinidad Moruga Scorpion) lives the Tiberius Mauler. It is the kind of pepper that feels like a bridge: brutal enough for true superhot fans, but still clean and bright enough to keep you coming back for a second push of the grinder.
Whether you’re looking for a superhot that delivers instant authority, or a daily-driver heat that still has personality, this delivers a sharp, forward burn with a surprisingly usable flavor backbone.
Heat and Flavor
Lab-tested at 860,448 Scoville Heat Units, the Tiberius Mauler hits fast and stays present. Expect a punchy, chinense-style fruitiness up front, followed by a rising heat that builds into a steady, gripping burn. The finish is hot, clean, and persistent, with just enough natural sweetness to keep it from tasting harsh.
If you like peppers that feel alive on the tongue, this one earns its reputation.
Origin Story
The Tiberius Mauler was created by grower Brian Hamilton in 2019. It originated as an accidental cross discovered in his garden from a seed packet labeled “Jay’s Peach Ghost Scorpion × 7 Pot Primo,” originally acquired from Justin White of White Hot Peppers.
Lineage: The pepper is believed to be a complex hybrid involving Leviathan Gnarly Scorpion, Jay’s Peach Ghost Scorpion (JPGS), and 7 Pot Primo.
Variations: While the original discovery was red, several color phenotypes have since been selected:
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Red: The original variety with extreme heat.
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Peach: A later selection known for brighter, citrus-forward notes.
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Caramel: Richer, earthier tones with long stingers.
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Chocolate: A newer variation derived from the caramel phenotype.
Characteristics: Known for its gnarly, heavily wrinkled pods and aggressive stingers, reminiscent of 7 Pot Primo and Primotalii types.
➡️ Learn more about the grower, Bill Corbitt
Video reviews of the fresh Tiberius Mauler
Development
Immediate and assertive. Heat arrives quickly with a sharp front-edge bite, then climbs with intent rather than chaos.
Duration
Long and steady. The burn holds its ground for several minutes, pulsing in controlled waves rather than spiking and collapsing.
Location
Begins on the tongue, spreads across the lips and gums, then settles deep in the throat with a firm, lingering grip.
Taste
Bright chinense fruit up front with subtle sweetness, followed by a clean, aggressive heat. Minimal bitterness. The finish is hot, direct, and uncompromising.
Culinary Uses
Use this like a scalpel, not a shovel. A little goes a long way.
- Pizza, wings, and anything with cheese
- Chili, beans, and slow-cooked meats
- Eggs, breakfast potatoes, avocado toast
- Stir-fries and noodle bowls that need a clean, aggressive lift
- A pinch in marinades or rubs when you want heat that does not get lost
