About
Capsicum 'Quickfire' is an annual plant known for its compact growth habit and rapid maturation. It features ovate, medium green leaves and produces small white flowers from the leaf axils during the summer months. These flowers develop into conical, edible fruits that start green and transition to red, offering a hot and spicy flavor profile. To enjoy a continuous harvest, seeds can be sown in succession starting in February.
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 sown at 21ºC (70ºF) in late winter
- 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