Fish Pepper (Capsicum annuum) is a historic African American heirloom prized for its beautiful variegated foliage, colorful striped peppers, and medium heat. Traditionally grown in the Mid-Atlantic region, the attractive fruits mature through shades of cream, green, orange, and bright red while providing excellent flavor for seafood and everyday cooking. Compact, highly productive plants make this variety equally at home in vegetable gardens, containers, and ornamental borders.
Why Grow Fish Pepper?
Historic African American heirloom. Beautiful variegated foliage and colorful striped peppers. Heavy producer throughout the season. Excellent for seafood, sauces, fresh cooking, and ornamental gardens. A unique conversation piece with outstanding flavor.
Flavor, Heat & Culinary Uses
Heat Level: Medium (5,000–30,000 SHU)
Bright, slightly fruity flavor with a pleasant, medium heat that complements rather than overwhelms food. Excellent for seafood dishes, chowders, hot sauces, salsa, stir-fries, pepper vinegar, and traditional Chesapeake Bay recipes. Harvest at different color stages for both beauty and flavor.
Growing Information
Easy to grow in fertile, well-drained soil with full sun. Compact plants produce continuously from midsummer until frost and perform well in both gardens and containers. Harvest peppers as they mature through their colorful stages or allow them to ripen fully to bright red.
Seedman Notes
Fish Pepper is one of the most fascinating heirlooms you can grow. Its striking variegated leaves and beautifully striped peppers make it a standout in the garden, while its rich history and versatile flavor have earned it a lasting place in American gardening. It's a wonderful variety for gardeners who appreciate peppers with both beauty and heritage.
Quick Facts: Capsicum annuum • 75–80 Days • Medium (5,000–30,000 SHU) • 24–36" Plants • 2–3" Tapered Fruits • Cream & Green Stripes to Orange & Bright Red • Best for Seafood, Hot Sauces & Ornamental Gardens
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