Capsicum annuum
Capsicum annuum
Chili pepper
●
Taxonomy
Family Solanaceae · Genus Capsicum
Description
Capsicum annuum is the go-to pepper species, from sweet bells to fiery chiles. It thrives in warm sun and rewards you with colorful, flavorful harvests.
Common Names
Chili pepperBell pepperSweet pepperHot pepperPaprika pepperCayenne pepperJalapeño
Context
nativeRegion
Mexico and northern Central America; domesticated in Mesoamerica.
usdaZones
Perennial in zones 9–11; grown as an annual elsewhere.
companionPlants
Basil, Marigold, Onion, Carrot, Oregano, Nasturtium
culturalUses
Staple in global cuisines fresh, dried, or pickled; spices like paprika and chili powder; ornamental peppers; capsaicin used in topical balms and preservation.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun (6–8+ hours daily); more light improves flowering and fruit set.
WateringKeep evenly moist; about 1–1.5 in (25–38 mm) water per week. Avoid waterlogging; mulch to stabilize soil moisture.
SoilFertile, well-drained loam rich in organic matter; pH 6.0–6.8.
FertilizerMix compost or a balanced fertilizer at planting; side-dress with nitrogen/potassium at first bloom and during fruit set; avoid excess nitrogen.
HumidityModerate (40–60%); ensure good airflow to reduce fungal pressure.
TemperatureWarm-season crop; ideal 70–85°F (21–29°C) days and 60–70°F (16–21°C) nights. Protect below 55°F (13°C); heat >90°F (32°C) may reduce fruit set.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitBushy annual or short-lived perennial subshrub with upright branching.
Mature Size1.5–3 ft (45–90 cm) tall and 1–2 ft (30–60 cm) wide, depending on cultivar.
Growth RateFast in warm conditions with adequate light and nutrition.
BloomingSmall white flowers from late spring through summer; continuous flowering/fruiting in favorable conditions.
DormancyNo true dormancy as an annual; may overwinter semi-dormant in frost-free climates or indoors.
Propagation
MethodsSeed, Softwood cuttings, Overwintering established plants
DifficultyEasy from seed; moderate from cuttings.
Best SeasonStart seeds indoors late winter to early spring; transplant after last frost. Take cuttings late spring to summer.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningMinimal. Pinch early tips to encourage branching; remove lower suckers, yellowing leaves, and diseased tissue. Stake or cage if fruit load is heavy.
RepottingPot up as roots fill; final container 3–5 gal (11–19 L) for standard types, 5–10 gal (19–38 L) for large varieties. Refresh soil each spring.
Pests & DiseasesAphids, whiteflies, thrips, spider mites, pepper weevil; cutworms on seedlings. Diseases: bacterial leaf spot, mosaic viruses, Phytophthora blight, powdery mildew; physiological issues: blossom end rot, sunscald. Use clean seed, rotate crops, ensure airflow, and avoid wet foliage.
ToxicityFruits are edible; capsaicin can irritate skin/eyes and cause GI upset in pets and people. Keep hot peppers away from children and pets.
Recent Public Plants
No public plants yet.