Capsicum frutescens
TAXONOMY
FamilySolanaceae
GenusCapsicum
Zone10
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Capsicum frutescens, commonly known as chili pepper or bird's eye chili, is a member of the Solanaceae family. Native to tropical regions of the Americas, it is a subshrub or shrub that thrives in seasonally dry tropical climates. This plant is known for its small, fiery fruits that are used in various culinary dishes around the world.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Bell Pepper
Cayenne-Pepper
Cayennepfeffer
Chili Pepper
Chilli
Chillies
Hot Pepper
Tabasco Pepper
Capsicum
Capsicum baccatum
Capsicum conicum var. latifolium
Capsicum fastigiatum
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
GDD1,800
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
WANT MORE TIPS?
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Capsicum frutescens requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in warm temperatures and moderate humidity. Regular watering is necessary, but the soil should be allowed to dry out partially between waterings. This plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors, provided it receives adequate light and warmth.Harvest
Capsicum frutescens, commonly known as chili pepper, should be harvested when the fruits are fully mature and have reached their final color, which can be red, yellow, or orange depending on the variety. Harvesting is typically done by hand, using scissors or pruning shears to cut the fruit from the plant to avoid damaging the branches. It is important to wear gloves during harvest to protect your skin from the capsaicin in the peppers, which can cause irritation. The best time to harvest is in the morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day sets in.Soil
Capsicum frutescens prefers well-draining loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moderately moist but not waterlogged. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10 is ideal for Capsicum frutescens. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth and fruit production.Repotting
Repot Capsicum frutescens when the plant outgrows its current container, typically every 1-2 years. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage, and carefully transfer the plant, ensuring the root ball remains intact.Propagation
Capsicum frutescens can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a warm, sunny location and kept moist until germination. Cuttings can be taken from healthy plants and rooted in a well-draining soil mix.Pruning
Pruning is beneficial for Capsicum frutescens to encourage bushier growth and increase fruit production. Prune the plant in early spring by removing any dead or weak branches and trimming back overgrown areas.Toxicity
Capsicum frutescens is not toxic to pets or humans. However, the fruits contain capsaicin, which can cause irritation if it comes into contact with the skin or eyes. Handle the fruits with care and wash hands thoroughly after handling.Additional
Capsicum frutescens can be susceptible to pests such as aphids and spider mites. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and treat promptly with appropriate insecticides or natural remedies.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
