Ornamental Pepper Plants: A Guide for Beginners
What are Ornamental Pepper Plants?
Ornamental pepper plants are a type of pepper plant that is grown primarily for its decorative value. Unlike garden peppers, which are grown for their edible fruits, ornamental peppers have fruits that are often too spicy to eat. However, some varieties of ornamental peppers do have edible fruits, and they can be used to add a bit of heat to your favorite dishes.
Ornamental pepper plants are typically smaller than garden peppers, and they have a more compact growth habit. They also tend to have more colorful foliage, with leaves that can be green, burgundy, or even black. Some varieties of ornamental peppers even have variegated foliage, with leaves that are a mix of different colors.
Edible and Hot Varieties of Ornamental Pepper Plants
There are many different varieties of ornamental pepper plants, and each variety has its own unique flavor and heat level. Some of the most popular varieties of ornamental peppers include:
- Aurora: A medium to hot pepper with a spiciness of 30,000 to 50,000 Scoville units. The fruit changes from green to purple to orange, then red when fully mature.
- Basket of Fire: A hot pepper with a spiciness of about 80,000 Scoville units. The fruit color transitions from creamy yellow through orange to red.
- Black Pearl: A hot pepper with a spiciness of 10,000 to 30,000 Scoville units. The black foliage contrasts nicely with the fully ripe red fruit.
- Calico: A variegated ornamental pepper with leaves that are a tricolor mix of medium green, creamy white, and purple foliage. The fruit ripens to a shade of red and has 50,000 to 70,000 Scoville units.
- Chinese 5 Color: A hot pepper with a spiciness of 30,000 to 50,000 Scoville units. The 1-inch (2.5 cm), cone-shaped fruits change color several times during the ripening process.
- Chilly Chili: A mild ornamental pepper with a spiciness of less than 1000 Scoville units. The 2 to 3 inch (5-7.6 cm.) fruit ripens from yellow to red.
- Medusa: A mild ornamental pepper with a spiciness of under 1000 Scoville units. The pencil-shaped fruit transitions from creamy white to red while ripening.
- NuMex Twilight: A hot pepper with a spiciness of 30,000 to 50,000 Scoville units. The fruit transitions from brilliant purple to yellow, orange, and cherry red.
- Sangria: A mild ornamental pepper with a Scoville rating under 5000. The fruit looks similar to a cayenne, but it is more colorful.
- Tangerine Dream: A sweet ornamental pepper with a very slightly spicy rating of under 100 Scoville units. The short, cone-shaped fruit turns orange when ripe.
Growing Ornamental Pepper Plants
Ornamental pepper plants are relatively easy to grow, and they can be grown in a variety of climates. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil, but they can also tolerate partial shade. Ornamental pepper plants should be watered regularly, but they should not be overwatered.
Ornamental pepper plants can be grown from seed or from cuttings. If you are starting from seed, you should sow the seeds indoors about 6 weeks before the last frost. The seeds should be planted in a well-draining potting mix, and they should be kept warm and moist. Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, they can be transplanted outdoors.
Ornamental pepper plants can also be grown from cuttings. To take a cutting, simply cut a 4- to 6-inch stem from a healthy plant. Remove the leaves from the bottom of the cutting, and then dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone. The cutting should then be planted in a well-draining potting mix, and it should be kept warm and moist. Once the cutting has developed roots, it can be transplanted outdoors.
Uses for Ornamental Pepper Plants
Ornamental pepper plants can be used in a variety of ways. They can be planted in flower beds, containers, or hanging baskets. They can also be used as a border plant or as a specimen plant. Ornamental pepper plants are also a popular choice for indoor gardens.
Benefits of Ornamental Pepper Plants
Ornamental pepper plants have a number of benefits. They are a beautiful and unique addition to any garden. They are also relatively easy to grow, and they can be used in a variety of ways. In addition, ornamental pepper plants can help to deter pests and diseases.
Toxicity of Ornamental Pepper Plants
All parts of the ornamental pepper plant are toxic to humans and animals. The leaves, stems, and fruits all contain a toxin called capsaicin. Capsaicin is the compound that gives peppers their spicy flavor. Ingesting capsaicin can cause a burning sensation in the mouth, throat, and stomach. It can also cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, capsaicin poisoning can be fatal.
It is important to keep ornamental pepper plants out of the reach of children and animals. If you do come into contact with the sap of an ornamental pepper plant, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.