Various plants from South and Central America are available as ornamental peppers in this country. Capsicum annum is a very decorative annual plant with edible fruits. Peperomia obtusfolia is much better known and is a popular houseplant because of its air purifying properties.
How should I care for my ornamental pepper?
Peperomia obtusfolia is considered slightly poisonous. The plant is available with green leaves or variegated leaves. While green-leaved varieties tolerate partial shade well, variegated-leaved varieties need a lot of light. If they don't get this, they lose their interesting coloring and simply turn green. They usually only grow to around 30 cm.
All varieties of Peperomia obtusfolia do not tolerate direct sunlight on a south-facing window. Larger temperature fluctuations and drafts should be avoided. Room temperatures between 18 °C and 23 °C are ideal. These plants do not do well at temperatures below around 15 °C. Water sparingly and, if possible, with rainwater. 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 and does not tolerate drafts or waterlogging. Give it a little fertilizer once a week. In summer it is welcome to stand in a place 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 referred to as ornamental peppers. So always pay attention to the botanical name before harvesting the fruits.
The most important ingredient in Capsicum annum is capsaicin. It has a pain-relieving effect and increases blood circulation. 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:
- Edible fruits
- green plant parts poisonous!
- belongs to the nightshade family
- Location: sunny and airy, not above 20 °C
- water rather little
- Avoid waterlogging at all costs
- fertilize once a week
- can go outside in summer
- does not tolerate wind or drafts
Tip
Ornamental pepper, regardless of the type, is a very decorative houseplant that requires little care in the right location. But at least some of it is slightly poisonous.