Fish Pepper: Capsicum annuum

The common name for this heirloom pepper comes from its traditional use in flavoring fish and seafood dishes in the Chesapeake Bay region. The fish pepper is medium-hot. Plants have attractive, variegated foliage and grow 2-3' tall. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil.

Beginning in summer, plants produce small, white flowers which are followed by 2-3" fruits. The fruits start out green with cream stripes, turning orange-brown and then red when fully mature, usually 75-85 days from germination.

Sow seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date. Plant ¼" deep and place the trays or pots on a heat mat at 75-80°F. Seeds germinate in 10-14 days. Harden off the seedlings before planting them outside, 3-4 weeks after the last frost. Plant 1.5-2' apart. USDA Zones 2-11.