Care of an Ornamental Pepper Plant

by Jackie Carroll

    Striking when in full fruit, ornamental pepper (Capsicum annuum) is a shrubby little plant with a tropical appeal. Most varieties that are bred for ornamental use hold their peppers in a upright position above the foliage. These are considered outstanding ornamental plants but somewhat expensive because usually they are sold in large pots. Peppers bred for eating also make attractive and colorful ornamental plants and are less expensive, but their peppers are usually borne lower on the plants, hanging in a downward position. Although ornamental peppers are edible, most people find them too hot to enjoy. Ornamental pepper plants are annuals that grow best in warm areas. Their height depends on the plant type, with most measuring under 1 1/2 feet tall.


    Ornamental pepper plants need a location with full sun. The plants become leggy and produce few peppers if they receive fewer than eight hours of sunlight each day. Their soil should be rich and drain well. Work in a layer of compost before planting ornamental peppers if the soil fails to meet either of those requirements. If compost doesn't improve poorly drained soil, plant ornamental peppers in a raised bed or in containers. Poorly drained soil can lead to leaf diseases and root rot.


    Ornamental pepper plants develop a bushy growth habit if you pinch off the top 1 inch of their stems when they are about 6 inches tall and again when the side stems are about 6 inches long. Non-pinched plants may need staking after they produce fruit. Water the plants often enough to keep their soil evenly moist. Applying water slowly allows soil to absorb the moisture without letting it run off. Peppers don't like too much water; so allow their soil to dry slightly before watering again. Fertilize with a slow-release fertilizer early in the growing season.


    The plants grow well indoors and outdoors in containers at least 6 inches in diameter. Self-watering containers are best for outdoor ornamental peppers because their pots dry out quickly in full sun on hot days. Set indoor ornamental pepper plants' pots in a very bright, south-facing window. Water the plants by drenching their soil. Allow the excess water to drain from the pots, and then empty the saucer under each pot so that the plant roots won't sit in water. Fertilize the plants twice monthly with a liquid houseplant fertilizer until the peppers appear. Ornamental pepper plants don't need additional fertilizer after they fruit.

    Potential Problems

    Ornamental pepper plants are susceptible to leaf spot and wilt diseases, especially when grown in wet soil and in areas with poor air circulation. Once a plant is infected, it is best to remove and destroy it to prevent the spread of disease. Do not replace the plant with another ornamental pepper. Aphids and spider mites may become a problem. Spray the plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil spray according to the product's label instructions to control those insects.

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