A warm-season vegetable bearing crisp sweet capsicums or fiery chillies that ripen from green to red, yellow or orange. Compact and productive in garden beds or containers in full sun.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Mature size: 80 cm H × 50 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Capsicum
Capsicum annuum is an moderate-growing edible plant in the Solanaceae family. It reaches around 80 cm tall and 50 cm wide at maturity.
Where to grow Capsicum
Capsicum suits warm-temperate, subtropical and tropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Capsicum does best in loamy and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Capsicum is regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Capsicum in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Capsicum in the garden
Capsicum earns its place for edible harvests and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Capsicum with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Capsicum
Plant Sale lists Capsicum as seedlings and seed. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Capsicum seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.