Capsicum frutescens
hot pepper
A species chilli pepper that is probably native to Central and South America producing strongly growing, upright, well branched plants bearing small, hot, typically around 2cm long fruit that is ripening from pale yellow to red
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White Green | Green | Green Red | |
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1CBotanical details
- Family
- Solanaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy, Columnar upright
- Potentially harmful
- Irritant if eaten, skin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Capsicum are annual or perennial plants, with simple, alternate leaves, and tubular or bell-shaped flowers. They are grown for their glossy, many-seeded edible fruits, including chilli and bell peppers, and as indoor ornamental plants
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Trop. America
How to grow
Cultivation
Best grown inside on a sunny windowsill or in a greenhouse, but can be grown outside once all danger of frost has passed; select a sunny, sheltered position and grow in containers, growing bags or in open ground. Water regularly and feed with a high-potassium, liquid fertiliser once the first fruit has set. See how to grow: chilli peppers for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed in late winter to early spring. See sowing vegetable seeds or sowing seeds indoors
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
- Edible fruit
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required; pinch out growing tips of plants when they are about 20cm tall to encourage bushiness
Pests
May be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, whitefly, aphids, slugs and snails
Diseases
May be susceptible to grey moulds
Get involved
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