Skip to main content

We can all play a role in protecting Florida's natural resources.

Take the FFL Pledge!

Capsicum annuum: Ornamental Pepper

Keighly Graves, Tom Wichman, Claire Lewis, Gail Hansen, Ryan Klein, and
Other Contacts: Wendy Wilber


Release Date: 7/1/2026

DOI: 10.32473/EDIS-fp105-1999

Agriculture

Abstract

This document provides an overview of ornamental peppers (Capsicum annuum), detailing their growth habits, planting requirements, and uses. Ornamental peppers are annuals or perennials in warmer climates, known for their colorful fruits that range from red, purple, yellow, orange, to white. They thrive in full sun or partial shade and require a rich, evenly moist growing medium. The document also highlights their non-invasive nature, moderate growth rate, and resistance to pests. Additionally, it covers the plant’s physical characteristics, including height, spread, leaf arrangement, and fruit features. Original publication date October 1999.

About this Publication

This document is FPS105, one of a series of the Department of Environmental Horticulture, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date October 1999. Revised March 2023 and April 2026. Visit the Ask IFAS website at https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/ for the currently supported version of this publication.

How to Cite

Gilman, E., & Howe, T. (2007). Capsicum annuum Ornamental Pepper. EDIS, 2007(15). https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-fp105-1999

Authors

Keighly Graves
Keighly Graves
staff
University of Florida

horticultural science specialist, Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program

Tom Wichman
Tom Wichman
staff
University of Florida

Extension program manager, Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program, UF/IFAS Center for Land Use Efficiency

Claire Lewis
Claire Lewis
Specialist
University of Florida

state specialized agent II and director Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program, UF/IFAS Center for Land Use Efficiency

Gail Hansen
Gail Hansen
Specialist
University of Florida

professor, sustainable landscape design, UF/IFAS Department of Horticultural Sciences

Ryan Klein
Ryan Klein
Specialist
University of Florida

assistant professor, arboriculture, UF/IFAS School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences

Teresa Howe
Teresa Howe

former coordinator, research programs and services, UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center

Contacts

Wendy Wilber
Wendy Wilber
Specialist
University of Florida

state program coordinator and Extension agent IV, UF/IFAS Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program

Publication #FPS105