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Annual Biennial

Capsicum annuum 'Riot'

chilli pepper 'Riot'

An ornamental chilli pepper variety from the USA, producing high yields of striking, flame-like fruits that sit erect atop the foliage in clusters. Its small height and bushy habit make it perfect for container growing. Fruits are medium hot and can be harvested through Summer and into Autumn

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1 year
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Sand
Loam
Moisture
Well–drained, Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green Orange Red
Autumn Green Orange Red
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1C
Botanical details
Family
Solanaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Humans/Pets: Irritant if eaten, skin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
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

Unresolved

How to grow

Cultivation

Sow indoors from late Winter to mid-Spring in a small pot filled with good quality seed compost and cover with a fine layer of vermiculite. When seedlings are 2.5cm tall transplant to individual pots, water and keep in a sunny spot. See how to grow: chilli peppers for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds or sowing seeds indoors for further advice

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
  • Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning

Pinch out growing tips to encourage bushiness. Don't remove male flowers as fertilisation is essential

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids, whitefly and glasshouse red spider mite

Diseases

May be susceptible to grey moulds

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