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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Bell pepper
(Capsicum annuum)
Also Known As
Bell pepper, Sweet pepper, Paprika, Chili pepper
About This Plant
Capsicum annuum is a species of flowering plant in the nightshade family Solanaceae, native to southern North America and northern South America. This species is the most common and extensively cultivated of the five domesticated capsicums. The species encompasses a wide variety of shapes and sizes of peppers, both mild and hot, such as bell peppers, jalapeños, and cayenne peppers.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
18-48 inches (45-120 cm)
Light Requirements
Capsicum annuum requires full sun to thrive. If grown indoors, they need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Outdoors, they should be planted in a location that gets full sun.
Humidity Needs
Capsicum annuum prefers a moderate to high humidity level, around 60-70%. If the air is too dry, the plants may become stressed and more susceptible to pests and disease.
Fertilizing Schedule
Fertilize peppers every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Too much nitrogen can result in lush foliage but poor fruit production.
Pruning Guidelines
Prune Capsicum annuum to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration. Pinch off the growing tips of the plant when it reaches 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) tall to encourage branching.
Common Pests and Diseases
Common pests that affect Capsicum annuum include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Diseases that can affect peppers include bacterial spot, blossom end rot, and powdery mildew.
Indoor Size Range
12-24 inches (30-60 cm)
Watering Schedule
Peppers need consistent moisture, so water them deeply once a week. If they are grown in containers, they may need to be watered more frequently. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Temperature Range
Peppers are warm-season plants and require temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C) to grow and produce fruit. They cannot tolerate frost and should not be planted outdoors until all danger of frost has passed.
Growing Season
Capsicum annuum is a warm-season crop and should be planted after all danger of frost has passed. They typically take 70-80 days to mature from seed.
Growing Difficulty Level
Capsicum annuum is moderately difficult to grow. They require consistent moisture, warm temperatures, and full sun. However, with proper care, they can be a rewarding plant to grow.
USDA Hardiness Zones
Capsicum annuum is typically grown as an annual in USDA hardiness zones 2-11.
Did You Know?
Capsaicin, the compound that gives peppers their heat, is found in the white pith and seeds of the pepper, not in the flesh. Removing the seeds and pith can make the pepper less spicy.
