Calico Ornamental Pepper Plant

Calico Ornamental Pepper Plant is grown mostly for its foliage! The flashy display put on by this appealing, well-branched plant produces tri-colored foliage the most amazing combination of lavender, cream and green. The fruit, as it appears, will be glossy and black, maturing to red, but is not recommended for eating; it is considered extremely hot! Extraordinarily drought and heat tolerant, this eye-catching plant can be grown in mixed container plantings or in your garden as an attractive accent.

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