Bell Pepper

Capsicum annuum

Solanaceae · vegetables · Central/South America

EdibleMedium Maintenance

About Bell Pepper

A warm-season crop producing sweet, crisp fruits in green, red, yellow, and orange. Green peppers are simply unripe versions of colored peppers. Each plant can yield 6-8 fruits per season.

Growing Conditions

☀️

Sun

Full Sun

💧💧

Water

Medium

🌱

Soil

Rich, Well-drained

📈

Growth Rate

Medium

🌸

Bloom Season

Summer

🌈

Bloom Color

White

Size & Dimensions

Height

1' 6"

Spread

Hardiness Zone Range

Suitable for USDA Zones 2 through 11

Plant Details

Family	Solanaceae
Category	Vegetables
Native Region	Central/South America
Scientific Name	Capsicum annuum

Care Tips

✓Start indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost.
✓Needs warm soil (65°F+) for transplanting.
✓Harvest regularly to encourage more fruit.
✓Calcium prevents blossom end rot.

Fun Facts

★All bell pepper colors come from the same plant — green is unripe, red is fully ripe.
★Red peppers have 11x more beta-carotene than green.
★They have more vitamin C than oranges.

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Data verified: 2026-04

USDA Plants Database Missouri Botanical Garden

Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones can Bell Pepper grow in?

Bell Pepper (Capsicum annuum) thrives in USDA hardiness zones 2 through 11. This means it can tolerate winter temperatures typical of these zones. Check your local zone to ensure it is suitable for your area.

How much sun and water does Bell Pepper need?

Bell Pepper requires full sun and has medium water needs. It grows best in rich, well-drained soil. Regular watering is recommended, especially during dry periods.

How tall and wide does Bell Pepper grow?

Bell Pepper typically reaches 3' tall with a spread of 1' 6". It has a medium growth rate and requires medium maintenance. Plan your garden spacing accordingly to give it room to reach its full size.

Is Bell Pepper deer resistant?

Bell Pepper is not typically considered deer resistant. If deer are common in your area, consider protecting young plants with fencing or using deer repellent sprays during the growing season.

When does Bell Pepper bloom and is it edible?

Bell Pepper blooms in summer, producing white flowers. Parts of this plant are edible and can be used in cooking or eaten fresh. It belongs to the Solanaceae family and is native to Central/South America.

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