Habanero peppers are small, lantern-shaped chili peppers known for their intense heat and fruity flavor. They typically measure about 1 to 3 inches in length and can be orange, red, or green when ripe. On the Scoville scale, they range from 100,000 to 350,000 heat units, making them significantly hotter than jalapeño peppers. These peppers are commonly used in various cuisines, especially in Mexican and Caribbean dishes, to add spice and depth to salsas, sauces, and marinades. Due to their heat, they should be handled with care, and it's advisable to wear gloves when cutting them to avoid skin irritation.