About
Capsicum annuum 'Cayenne Red' is a compact and bushy annual known for its high yield. It features ovate, mid-green foliage and produces small white flowers that emerge from the leaf axils during the summer months. These flowers develop into elongated, slender fruits measuring approximately 12cm in length. The peppers transition from green to red as they ripen and possess a medium level of heat.
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
- Soil pH
- Neutral, Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1C
Plant details
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial, Fruit Edible
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 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
- Grow in a peat-free, loam-based compost in bright, filtered light. When in growth, water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every 10 days until fruit begins to colour. See how to grow: chilli peppers for further advice
- Pruning
- Pinch out growing tips to encourage branching
- 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 virus diseases, fungal wilt, anthracnose and powdery mildews