Ornamental Peppers

Black Pearl ornamental pepper

One of the plants I enjoy growing each summer is ornamental peppers. Ornamental peppers grow bright-colored little fruits that may be white, purple, red, orange or yellow, depending on the variety.  I particularly like those that have purple or variegated foliage.


This year I planted "Black Pearl."  I love the dark foliage, with the purple-black fruits that turn red with maturity.  As with other ornamental peppers, multiple colors are often seen on plants at the same time as the fruits ripen and change color.

Grow ornamental peppers in rich, well-drained soil that is evenly moist. They need full sun, at least six to eight hours a day.  Pinch back the end of each stem to encourage bushier growth.

The fruits are edible, but are usually very hot.  You can save the seeds to grow the plant again the next year.