Cayenne Pepper (Cayenne pepper)

Cayenne Pepper

Also known as: Elephant trunk, Italian roaster hybrid, Cow-horn, Cayenne Buist's Yellow, Joe's Long, Cayenne Long Thick Red, Cayenne Passion, Cayenne Violet

Cayenne Pepper is commonly used in South American cuisine, but the long, thin peppers are popular as a spice around the world. As the plant matures, its heat intensity increases from mild to hot. It is often dried and crushed into a powder, its red hue and flavor adding color and spice as a seasoning.

Scientific classification

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Annual, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

4 feet

Plant Height

30 cm to 46 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Red, Green

Fruit Color

White, Purple

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Culture

Interesting Facts

The fruits of capsicum annuum var. conoides are exquisite and variable. They stand on the top of the leaves and are interesting. When Columbus discovered the Americas in 1493, capsicum annuum var. conoides were brought back to Spain and introduced to Central Europe in about a century, while it was introduced to China through the Western Regions in the late Ming Dynasty.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Cayenne Pepper

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from a warm climate, cayenne Pepper thrives in subtropical conditions with regular moisture. Weekly watering is optimal, keeping soil evenly moist. Additional watering during the flowering phase enhances fruit development, crucial for overall plant health.

Fertilize: Cayenne Pepper thrives in nutrient-rich habitats with balanced fertilizers. Initially, use less fertilizer; once it develops 2-3 leaves, switch to nitrogen and phosphorus. During full fruiting, increase fertilizers, favoring a mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, while controlling nitrogen in the late stage.

Pruning: Cayenne Pepper, notable for its vibrant red fruits and spiciness, requires mid-spring pruning to eliminate dead branches and improve air circulation. This enhances growth and yield while reducing disease risk. Heavy pruning should be avoided during peak fruiting to support robust development.

Propagation: Cayenne Pepper is propagated by sowing seeds in well-draining soil at a depth equal to their size, with consistent moisture and warmth around 25°C (77°F) for germination. Transplant seedlings when sturdy, ensuring a nutrient-rich environment and adequate sunlight for optimal growth.

Repotting: Both potting and ground planting are suitable for cayenne Pepper, allowing flexibility in cultivation methods.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free