Pepper - Capsicum annuum (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Edible)

Pepper

Also known as: Chili pepper, Facing heaven pepper, Jalapeño, Anaheim pepper

The pepper are commonly used for cooking in places such as the Southern U.S. and Central America. Most are moderately spicy, though because there are so many variants, the spice level can vary dramatically. Cayenne powder is also a popular seasoning product made from pepper plants.

Scientific classification

Species

Pepper (Capsicum annuum)

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

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Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

20 cm to 1 m

Plant Height

15 cm to 30 cm

Spread

Green, Purple

Leaf Color

1 cm to 2 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Red, Black, Orange, Green, Burgundy, Purple, Gold, White

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Pepper

Distribution of Pepper

Distribution Map

Pepper is not found in the wild but is thought to have originated from Central America, most likely in forested lowlands and rocky slopes. It is one of the most cultivated peppers worldwide, but it is also listed as an agricultural weed in parts of Europe and its importation has been restricted in several Central and South American countries.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rivers, thickets, groves

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

The many cultivars of pepper are commonly grown by veggie gardeners as annuals in warmer climates to use in their home kitchens and add a bit of color to their garden. However, pepper plants are sometimes planted in their own area in vegetable gardens, as it can easily outcompete other plants with its prolific seeds; but herbs and other veggies like tomatoes can be solid companions.

Symbolism

Enthusiasm, healing, cleansing, desire

Interesting Facts

Do you know why peppers are spicy? First, we need to understand the basic biology of capsaicin, which was originally used as an antifungal agent to protect plants, but it has a new role due to man's discovery. Capsaicin activates certain neurons responsible for pain. Whether the cells are stimulated by hot peppers or by real burning, these special neurons indiscriminately transmit information to the brain. The hot feeling is both exciting and frightening.

Name Story

Cayenne pepper: Perhaps a common thing that comes to mind when hearing "Cayenne" is a luxury car, but the Cayenne pepper that is often mentioned in conversations is not the pepper of luxury car brands. The "Cayenne" mentioned here comes from its origin, the Cayenne region of French Guiana.

Red pepper||Green pepper||Bell pepper||Chili pepper: Capsicum annuum can be called different names, generally based on its taste and size. Larger and sweeter peppers are called red peppers, green peppers or bell peppers, while smaller and hotter peppers are called chili peppers.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Pepper, including the following common varieties :

Hungarian Yellow Wax Pepper Chinese Five Color Chili Pepper Sweet Banana Pepper Big Red Sweet Peppers Hot Banana Pepper Pretty Purple Pepper Christmas Pepper Orange Sun Bell Pepper Anaheim Pepper Poblano Pepper Cherry Pepper Five color pepper Peppers 'Hungarian Hot Wax'Bell Pepper Facing Heaven Pepper Cayenne Pepper Banana Pepper Jalapeño Pepper

Toxicity

Pepper is toxic to both cats and dogs. The fruits, leaves, and sap/juice can cause poisoning when ingested. Symptoms of poisoning include physical discomfort, requiring immediate veterinary attention. Owners must seek prompt treatment if poisoning is suspected. Dogs and cats are at risk of poisoning from consuming any part of pepper plant. Urgent veterinary care is essential.

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Quickly Identify Pepper

Fruit sizes vary from 6 inches (15 cm) to smaller shapes.

Leaves range from ovate to lance-shaped, up to 5 inches (13 cm) long.

Smooth hairless stem can reach 2 feet (60 cm) in height, turning purple at nodes.

White flowers with purple anthers, about 1 cm (0.4 inches) wide.

Colorful fruit transitions from green to red, yellow, or purple.

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Care Guide for Pepper

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Pepper thrives in warm, humid environments resembling its tropical origins and prefers consistent moisture with a watering schedule of twice a week. Better suited for indoor cultivation, maintaining ambient humidity is vital for optimal growth alongside soil moisture, especially during the growing season.

Fertilize: For optimal pepper growth, use high phosphorus fertilizers at transplanting, then balanced nutrients during vegetative stages. Fertilize bi-weekly with half-strength solutions, adjusting as needed. Reduce winter applications, emphasize pre-flowering. Mulch for nutrient retention and wear gloves for safety. Care enhances pepper vitality.

Pruning: Pepper benefits from mid-spring pruning to enhance fruit production and airflow. Key techniques include removing lower leaves, pinching early buds, and cutting back leggy growth. Clean, sharp tools help prevent stress and infection, directing energy toward fruiting rather than excessive foliage.

Propagation: Pepper, from the Solanaceae family, is grown for its edible fruit. Propagation involves sowing seeds in well-draining soil while maintaining consistent moisture. After seedling emergence, careful transplanting is essential. Gentle handling, warmth, light, and balanced fertilizer promote healthy growth.

Repotting: Ensure pepper has excellent drainage in pots to prevent waterlogging and promote healthy growth.

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Images of Pepper

Distribution of Pepper

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Pepper

Care Guide for Pepper

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