Medusa Ornamental Pepper Plant

Medusa Ornamental Pepper is a dwarf variety with long, slender peppers that often twist and curl, kind of like Medusa's hair! It is most often used as a container plant, though those in very temperate climates may use this variety as a border plant. Dark green foliage supports the upright growing peppers that mature from ivory to orange to red. Not hot at all, you can plant these where the kids play and use them as colorful garnish for salads or canned goods.

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