Cayenne Pepper plants - Capsicum frutescens

The 'Cayenne' Pepper (Capsicum frutescens) is a variety that produces elongated peppers, approximately 10 to 12 cm (4 to 5in) long, with a vibrant red colour and a very spicy taste. It is a plant that is grown annually, it requires heat and needs a very rich soil. The young plants of 'Cayenne' Pepper are planted in March-April for a harvest from late July to October.

Bell peppers and chili peppers come from the same plant! They are the result of successive selections that have led to bell peppers, with a sweet flavour, and chili peppers, with a spicy flavour. The heat of chili peppers is measured on the Scoville scale, ranging from 0 to 10 (0 corresponding to bell peppers). They were Take from the Americas and introduced to Europe by Christopher Columbus and quickly spread throughout the world. Apart from a few varieties, bell peppers and chili peppers are grown as annuals in our climate.

They belong to the Solanaceae family and are divided into five main species: Capsicum annuum (the most common), Capsicum baccatum, Capsicum chinense, Capsicum frutescens, and Capsicum pubescens.

The fruits, initially green, will take on their definitive colour during ripening: red, yellow, brown, orange, purple. Their shape varies: square, elongated, bell-like etc.

Bell peppers and chili peppers are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, including capsaicin, which is responsible for the more or less burning flavour of these fruits.

In terms of cooking, bell peppers and chili peppers are used in many cuisines around the world and can be cooked in multiple ways. Bell peppers can be eaten raw or cooked, stuffed, marinated, grilled, in salads, ratatouilles and more, while chili peppers, fresh or dried, enhance and spice up dishes according to their heat.

These fruity vegetables are demanding plants, requiring a very rich soil and enjoying full sun exposure.

Harvesting: The harvest takes place from August to October (or as early as July for certain varieties), by cutting the stem with pruning shears or a knife.

Storage: Bell peppers and chili peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for several days. They can also be frozen or dried.

Gardening tip: We recommend mulching the soil with thin successive layers of grass clippings, if possible mixed with dead leaves. This protection, which keeps the soil moist, also limits weed growth. You can also opt for a mineral mulch (bricks, slate, gravel etc.) which will help accumulate heat.