- Plant Characteristics: A neat, bushy plant with glossy green leaves and pops of colourful fruit—like mini lanterns ripening from green to red, yellow or purple. Great if you want a vegetable bed that looks as good as it is useful.
- Growing & Care: Thrives in full sun and well-drained, loamy soil—especially in warm weather. Water regularly but don't overdo it—overwatering is a fast track to blossom end rot.
- Tips for New Gardeners: Easy to grow, especially from starts or plugs. Be patient with fruit—peppers can take a while to ripen fully, and cooler nights will slow things down.
Capsicum annuum plant is a species native to Mexico and Central America, and is now distributed throughout southern North America, the Caribbean, and and northern South America.
Commonly known as the bell pepper or sweet pepper, this species also includes many other varieties such as cayenne, jalapenos, and paprika. It typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet (about 0.3-0.9 m) and has a similar spread, making it suitable for container gardening as well as traditional vegetable gardens.
The fruit can be harvested when green, or allowed to ripen to yellow, orange, red, or even purple, offering a colorful display in the garden. This plant is highly valued for its productive nature, providing a bountiful harvest from each plant.
It is grown in gardens across the world, flourishing in a tropical/subtropical climate (USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11, RHS hardiness zones H1 to H2) and also growable as an annual outdoors in zones 5 to 11, up to H3).
Growing Capsicum Annuum in the Garden
Capsicum annuum thrives in well-draining soil and prefers a location with full sun. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH, but is adaptable and can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
When growing peppers, propagation is usually done through seeds, sown indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last expected frost. After germination, the seedlings are transplanted outdoors once daytime temperatures regularly exceed 70°F (about 21°C).
Plant the seedlings in holes twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball, spacing plants 18-24 inches (approximately 45-60 cm) apart to allow for mature growth. Regular watering is crucial, especially during fruit production, but care should be taken to avoid waterlogged soil.
Staking or using a small cage can help to support the plant once it begins producing fruit, especially in windy areas.
While Capsicum annuum does not require pruning to grow well, removing early blossoms can encourage more robust plant growth and ultimately a more abundant harvest. An application of a balanced fertilizer once the first fruits begin to form can also promote a fruitful yield.
Capsicum annuum is self-pollinating. That said, gently shaking flowering plants or hand-pollinating can help to improve fruit set, especially when grown in sheltered environments.
Once the fruits reach the desired colour and size, you can harvest peppers by cutting them from the stem with scissors or secateurs. Frequent harvesting can encourage more fruit production.
While this plant is generally hardy, it can be susceptible to pests such as aphids and diseases like blossom end rot or powdery mildew. Regular monitoring and immediate treatment will ensure a healthy plant and a bountiful harvest.
By following these care tips, you can enjoy the colorful, versatile fruits of Capsicum annuum in your home garden.
Quick Capsicum annuum Growing and Care Guide
Scientific Name: Capsicum annuum
Common Name(s): Bell Pepper, Chili Pepper, Sweet Pepper, Cayenne Pepper.
Growing Zone (USA / UK Hardiness): USDA Zones: 9-11 RHS Hardiness Rating: H1C. Can be grown in cooler areas as an annual (zone 5 / RHS 3).
Best Used For / Garden Location: Ideal for vegetable gardens, containers, and ornamental edging. Preferably in a sunny location.
Plant Details
Life Cycle / Plant Type: Annual.
Plant Height: 1-3 feet (30-90 cm).
Plant Spread: 1-3 feet (30-90 cm).
Blooms: Summer.
Flower Details: White, star-shaped flowers.
Leaf Foliage: Smooth, glossy green leaves.
Fruit: Various sizes and colors, typically green turning red or yellow when ripe.
Growing Conditions and Location
Best Light Conditions: Full sun.
Suitable Soil Types: Well-draining, loamy soil with neutral pH.
Sowing / planting: Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost, transplant outdoors when the soil has warmed.
Germination time: Seeds usually germinate in 14-21 days at 70-85°F (21-29°C).
Propagation: Grown from seeds.
Plant Care: Regular watering, avoid waterlogging. Fertilize when fruits begin to form.
Growing in pots and containers: Suitable for containers with good drainage, sufficient space, and regular feeding.
Growing as a House plant: Can be grown indoors in a well-lit spot, usually as an annual.
Further Information
Miscellaneous: Fruits are edible and vary in spice level. Attracts bees and butterflies.
Pests and diseases: Can be affected by aphids, slugs, snails, powdery mildew and blossom end rot.
Common Cultivars / Varieties: Capsicum annuum 'California Wonder', known for its large bell peppers. Capsicum annuum 'Cayenne Long Slim', known for its long, slim, spicy peppers.
Family: Solanaceae, the Nightshade family.
Native: Native to South and Central America.
References and Further Reading: Capsicum annuum an overview, Missouri Botanical Garden Cayenne Pepper Growing Guide.
Common Questions
Does Capsicum annuum make a good garden or landscaping plant?
Absolutely, commonly known as bell pepper or chili pepper, is both a functional and decorative addition to the garden. It bears colorful fruits and foliage, making it an attractive choice for your edible landscaping needs.
Is Capsicum annuum a fragrant plant?
It is not typically considered a fragrant plant. However, its ripe fruits can produce a faint, spicy aroma when harvested or cooked.
What is the perfect location to grow this type of Capsicum?
Capsicum annuum prefers a sunny location and well-drained soil. These plants love warmth, so a site that gets full sun is ideal for promoting fruit production.
Is Capsicum annuum invasive in the USA, if so in which states?
Peppers are not considered invasive in the USA as it does not persist in the wild after being planted, unlike for example Capsicum chinense. While it may self-seed under perfect conditions, it doesn't generally spread aggressively or disrupt native ecosystems.
How do I remove Capsicum annuum from my garden?
To remove Capsicum annuum from your garden, simply uproot the plant. If you wish to prevent self-seeding, ensure to remove fallen fruits and dispose of them properly.
Can you recommend some companion plants for my pepper plant?
Capsicum annuum grows well alongside Basil, Carrots, Oregano, and Onions. In addition to these commonly grown plants, growing peppers near Marigolds (Tagetes) and Oregano can help to deter aphids and common pests. Tomato plants are also great to grow alongside peppers as they have similar needs. It is recommended not to plant them close to Fennel, nor repeatedly in the same spot to avoid disease buildup.
Summary
Capsicum annuum is native to the Americas, grows well in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. This species includes various types of peppers, from sweet bell peppers though to hot chilies.
I hope that you have enjoyed reading this guide on how to grow Bell, Sweet, and Chili Peppers. You may also enjoy the following Solanaceae growing guides: How to Grow Petunia, Browallia, Schizanthus, and Growing Eggplants plants in the garden.
