Ornamental Pepper, also known as "Christmas Pepper" or "Ornamental Chili," is a vibrant plant loved for its dazzling display of colorful peppers. These small, fiery-looking fruits appear in shades of red, yellow, orange, and purple, adding a lively touch to any garden or home. While technically edible, their intense spiciness makes them better suited for ornamental use. Native to Central and South America, Ornamental Peppers thrive in warm, sunny conditions, making them a perfect addition to bright spaces indoors or outdoors.
Common Names
- Christmas Pepper
- Ornamental Chili
- Capsicum Annuum
Botanical Classification
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Order: Solanales
- Family: Solanaceae
- Genus: Capsicum
- Species: C. annuum
Native Habitat
Originating in the tropical regions of Central and South America, Ornamental Pepper thrives in warm, sunny environments with well-draining soil. This plant can also be grown indoors, provided it has access to bright, direct sunlight from a sunny windowsill or a grow light.
Description
Physical Characteristics
The Ornamental Pepper is a compact plant with bushy growth, typically reaching 6 to 12 inches in height. Its glossy, dark green leaves provide a beautiful backdrop to the vibrant, upright-growing peppers that change color as they mature, ranging from green to brilliant red, yellow, orange, and purple.
Growth Habit
This plant grows compactly, making it ideal for container gardening, patios, or small spaces. It thrives in full sun and warm temperatures, replicating its native tropical habitat.
Popular Ornamental Varieties
Citrus, Calamondin Orange
- Compact and decorative, producing small tart fruits.
- Citrus Calamondin Orange
Columnea Hirta 'Goldfish'
- Noted for its bright goldfish-shaped flowers.
- Columnea Hirta 'Goldfish'
Care Guide
Light Requirements
Ornamental Pepper thrives in full sunlight, needing at least 6 hours daily for vibrant fruit color and healthy growth.
Watering Needs
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring the pot has drainage to avoid waterlogging.
Soil Preferences
Plant in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Adding perlite or sand improves drainage.
Fertilization
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season for best results.
Common Pests
Aphids
These pests can cause leaf curling. Treat with insecticidal soap or a water spray.
Spider Mites
Prevent by misting the plant regularly and maintaining humidity levels.
Whiteflies
Use yellow sticky traps or insecticidal soap to control whitefly infestations.
Benefits of Ornamental Pepper
Decorative Appeal
The brightly colored peppers add a festive charm to any indoor or outdoor space.
Low Maintenance
Requires minimal care and adapts well to small spaces, perfect for beginner gardeners. Low Maintenance Plants
FAQs
Can I eat Ornamental Peppers?
Yes, but they are very spicy and typically grown for decoration.
How much sunlight does it need?
It needs at least 6 hours of bright, direct sunlight daily.
How often should I water Ornamental Pepper?
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Does Ornamental Pepper grow indoors?
Yes, it can thrive indoors near a sunny window with bright, direct sunlight.
How do I encourage more peppers?
Regular pruning and feeding with a balanced fertilizer will promote fruiting.
How to take care of Ornamental Pepper
Sun: Direct to Indirect
Sun: Direct to Indirect
Ensure they receive plenty of bright light. Ideally, 6-8 hours of direct sun will promote healthy growth and vibrant colors.
Light: Bright
Light: Bright
Ornamental Peppers thrive in direct sunlight but can also tolerate bright, indirect light for part of the day.
Water: Moderate
Water: Moderate
Water regularly, keeping the soil slightly moist, but allow the top layer to dry between waterings to avoid overwatering.
Humidity: Average
Humidity: Average
They prefer average household humidity levels but will adapt well to slightly more humid environments.
Pet Friendly: Caution
Pet Friendly: Caution
Ornamental Peppers are not pet-friendly and can cause mild irritation if ingested by pets.
Pro Tip
Pro Tip
To encourage more blooms, ensure they receive full sun during the growing season and pinch back any leggy growth.
Delivery Policy for Plant Condition
Delivery Policy for Plant Condition
"I have only received part of my order. What to do?
No worries if you've only got part of your order! Our plants come from different nurseries and might arrive in separate shipments, typically 1-2 days apart. It's all part of ensuring your green friends reach you in top-notch condition!
If you do not receive the remaining packages within 48 hours contact support at info@mygreenscape.ca
What is the Life Time Support?
Absolutely! Lifetime support means you can count on us whenever you have questions or uncertainties about your plant. Whether you're puzzled by its behavior or just want to ensure it's thriving, we're here for you. Connect with us on Instagram @mygreenscapeto or shoot us an email at support@mygreenscape.ca.
When it comes to our guarantee for plants shipped with standard or express, rest assured that we offer a 30-day happy healthy plant guarantee on all such shipments. This ensures that your plants are covered for 30 days after delivery, giving you peace of mind regarding their condition. If you have any concerns within this period, feel free to reach out to us for assistance.
For further details, please visit our Local Delivery, Store Pickup, Standard Shipping Guide Page.
What to expect
What to expect
Your plant will arrive in a standard nursery pot, typically 0.5" - 1" smaller than the stated size to seamlessly fit into your chosen decorative pot. Washable Paper Planter Bags are available for separate purchase.
Just like nature intended, each plant is unique, showcasing natural variations in size, shape, and characteristics. Our commitment is to deliver a plant that closely resembles the one featured on our website, matching your chosen size, and with the potential to thrive happily in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Certainly! If you're pondering about ordering plants online, you're not alone. We've compiled the most frequently asked questions. Check out our FAQ section here for quick answers! Happy planting!
Plant & Pot Size Chart
Plant & Pot Size Chart
Choosing the right pot size for your plants can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to gardening. But fear not! Our pot sizes chart can help you find the perfect match for your plants, ensuring they have enough space to grow and thrive. With our guide, you'll be able to confidently choose the right pot size and plant variety for your gardening needs.
Plant Pot Size Guide.
Extra Small | 7-10 cm | 2.5 - 3 inches |
Small | 11-12 cm | 3.5 - 4 inches |
Medium | 14-17 cm | 5 - 6 inches |
Large | 19-21 cm | 8 - 10 inches |
Extra Large | 24-27 cm | 12 - 14 inches |
All sizes are specified in product details.
Your Complete Guide to Pot Sizes: What Size Should You Choose?
When selecting a pot for your plant, it's important to find the right size. But with all the different options out there, how do you know which one is best? We're here to help!
MyGreenscape's pot sizes chart is a great resource for finding your perfect fit. Our easy-to-read chart takes out all the guesswork and helps you quickly choose the right size for your plant.
Smaller pots are best for seedlings or small plants just starting out. These tend to be shallow but wide, allowing enough room for the roots of the young plant but not too much where they get overcrowded. Medium-sized pots are ideal when your plant has grown from its infancy and is ready for more space. These are deeper and wider than small pots, so that it can accommodate larger root systems - making sure your plant gets enough nourishment while still giving it breathing room. Large pots are top choice if you have an established plant in need of lots of space - think trees and large shrubs! The spacious depth and width allow plenty of room for deep root systems without struggling for air or light.
No matter what size you choose, MyGreenscape has got you covered, with our pot sizes chart guaranteeing you find the perfect fit every time!
Winter Shipping Protection
Winter Shipping Protection
We take extra care with each package during the colder months. For destinations experiencing cold weather, we provide insulated packaging and heat packs as needed to protect your plants from freezing temperatures. With Winter Shipping Protection, your plants are equipped to arrive safe and sound, even in winter’s chill.
Care Guide
Care Guide
Explore essential care tips. check out our Comprehensive Resource for Indoor Plant Care.
WATERING MADE EASY
Check soil moisture before watering and use a potting mix that drains well. It’s the secret to healthy, happy plants!