October brings shorter days and cooler evenings, but also an explosion of autumnal colours in the plant world. Among the most striking seasonal choices are ornamental peppers (Capsicum annuum varieties), compact plants that fill balconies, windowsills, and gardens with vivid fruits in red, orange, yellow, purple, and even black.

At Planteka, we help plant lovers take better care of their plants—whether it’s with practical guides like this, our gardening workshops, or in-person services in Spain. Each month, we highlight a plant that can brighten your home or garden while teaching you something new about plant care. Read our September edition about Calatheas if you missed it.

Varieties worth trying

There are dozens of cultivars, but some favourites include:

• ‘Black Pearl’ – glossy black leaves with round, dark-purple fruits that turn red.
• ‘Sangria’ – multicoloured peppers in purple, orange, and red all at once.
• ‘Medusa’ – long, thin peppers resembling fiery tendrils, in yellow to red.
• ‘Chilly Chili’ – mild (not hot) peppers, safe for children and pets.
• ‘Aurora’ – compact plant with peppers that shift from lavender to orange to red.

Calathea: a dramatic houseplant made for autumn

How to care for ornamental peppers

Light

• They love full sun—at least 6 hours daily.
• Indoors: place near the brightest window available or under grow lights.

Watering

• Keep the soil evenly moist, especially while the plant is fruiting.
• Avoid waterlogging—good drainage is essential.
• Reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy in late autumn.

Soil

• Use a well-draining potting mix enriched with compost.
• Terracotta pots work well, allowing excess moisture to evaporate.

Temperature & Humidity

• Ornamental peppers thrive in warm weather but can tolerate cooler nights.
• Protect them from frost (below 10 °C).
• Outdoors, they are grown as annuals in Mediterranean climates.

Fertilizer

• Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–3 weeks while flowering and fruiting.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Pinch back the tips in early growth to encourage a bushier shape.
• Remove spent fruits if you want to prolong flowering.

Can you grow ornamental peppers indoors?

Yes! They do beautifully in bright spots indoors, but keep in mind:

• They need strong light—south-facing windows or grow lights are ideal.
• Indoors, they often last one season (annuals), but you can collect seeds or propagate.

Propagation

• By seeds: Collect ripe fruits, dry the seeds, and sow in spring.
• By cuttings: Less common, but possible with softwood cuttings in warm conditions.

Common problems

• Yellow leaves → usually overwatering.
• No fruiting → insufficient light or nutrients.
• Aphids / whiteflies → wipe leaves, apply neem oil if needed.

Why we love ornamental peppers

Because they embody the season: vibrant, fiery, and full of life. They bring an autumnal accent to homes and terraces, thrive in pots, and are easy to care for—even for beginners.

If your peppers look weak, aren’t fruiting, or you’re unsure how to keep them thriving indoors, book a Plant Doctor consultation. Our experts can guide you step by step so your October is filled with color.

💬 Have you ever grown ornamental peppers? Which variety is your favourite—‘Black Pearl,’ ‘Medusa,’ or another? Share your story in the comments!