Various plants from South and Central America are offered as ornamental peppers in this country. Capsicum annum is a very ornamental annual plant with edible fruits. Peperomia obtusfolia is far better known and is a popular houseplant for its air-purifying properties.
The fruits of the Capsicum annum are edible
How should I care for my ornamental pepper?
Peperomia obtusfolia is considered slightly poisonous. The plant is available with green leaves or variegated. While green-leaved varieties do well in partial shade, variegated varieties need quite a lot of light. If they don't get this, they lose their interesting coloring and simply turn green. They usually only grow up to about 30 cm.
All varieties of Peperomia obtusfolia do not tolerate direct sunlight on a south-facing window. Greater temperature fluctuations and drafts should be avoided. Room temperatures between 18 °C and 23 °C are ideal. Temperatures below about 15°C do not do these plants well. Water sparingly, using rainwater if possible. Also ensure good humidity, otherwise your ornamental pepper will easily suffer from pests.
Capsicum annum, on the other hand, prefers a sunny and airy location where temperatures do not rise above around 20 °C. It should also be watered sparingly, does not tolerate drafts or waterlogging. Give it a little fertilizer once a week. In summer it is welcome to stand somewhere protected from the wind in the garden or on the balcony.
Capsicum annum as a medicinal plant
Capsicum annum is also traded under the names Turkish or Spanish pepper and Mexican pepper. Other species are also called ornamental peppers. So always check the botanical name before harvesting the fruit.
The main ingredient in Capsicum annum is capsaicin. It relieves pain and increases blood circulation. So it is (used externally) a popular remedy for rheumatism and joint problems. However, self-treatment is not recommended.
The most important things about Capsicum annum in brief:
- fruits edible
- green plant parts poisonous!
- belongs to the nightshade family
- Location: sunny and airy, not over 20 °C
- pour rather little
- Absolutely avoid waterlogging
- fertilize once a week
- allowed to go outside in summer
- does not tolerate wind or drafts
tips
Ornamental pepper, no matter what kind, is a very decorative houseplant that requires little care in the right location. However, at least parts of it are slightly poisonous.