About

Capsicum annuum 'Apache' is a compact, bushy annual that features numerous white flowers during the summer months. This plant produces green fruits, reaching lengths of up to 7 cm, which mature into medium to hot red chili peppers.

About the genus

Capsicum comprises both annual and perennial species characterized by simple, alternate foliage and flowers that are either tubular or bell-shaped. These plants are cultivated primarily for their glossy, multi-seeded fruits, which include varieties such as chili and bell peppers. Additionally, they serve as popular choices for indoor ornamental displays.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained, Well-drained

Aspect

South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H1C

Plant details

Plant type

Annual Biennial, Conservatory Greenhouse

Habit

Bushy

Foliage

Deciduous

Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Time to full height

1 year

Suggested uses

Patio and container plants

Toxicity

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

Care notes

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, peat-free 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

Pruning

No pruning required; pinch out growing tips of plants when they are about 20cm tall to encourage bushiness

Propagation

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

Pest resistance

May be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite and aphids

Disease resistance

May be susceptible to blossom end rot