Black Pearl Ornamental Pepper Plant

Black Pearl Ornamental Pepper is all about the purplish-black leaves and the black pearl fruit. The leaves, when they first emerge, will be green, turning that dark, purple-black color in the sun! The flowers on this ornamental pepper plant will be lilac, with dark, glossy, pearl-sized peppers emerging in the fall. If using in the kitchen, use with care, these little bites are hot!

Planting Instructions:

• - Plant in late spring or early summer after the last frost date

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 6.0-7.0

Watering Specifics:

• - Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during hot weather

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time
• - Supplement with a water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season

Pruning and Training:

• - Pinch back growing tips early in the season to encourage bushier growth

Additional Pest Management:

• - Watch for common pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies

Blooming and Fruiting Indicators:

• - Fruits persist on the plant for an extended period, adding visual interest to the garden

Light Requirements:

• - Can tolerate light shade, but fruit production may decrease

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Prefers warm temperatures
• - Heat-tolerant but should be protected from extreme heat to prevent fruit drop
• - Not frost-hardy

Companion Plants for Ornamental Peppers:

• - Marigolds: Their pest-repelling properties and bright colors make them a beneficial companion for Ornamental Peppers
• - Zinnias: Their bold colors and upright growth pair well with Ornamental Peppers in garden beds
• - Basil: The fragrant foliage of Basil can deter pests while adding a culinary twist to the garden
• - Salvia: Their spiky blooms add vertical interest and attract pollinators, complementing Ornamental Peppers
• - Calibrachoa: The trailing habit and colorful blooms of Calibrachoa create a vibrant display with Ornamental Peppers