Capsicum annuum seeds grow into the common chili or sweet pepper the world's most economically important pepper species, encompassing an extraordinary range of cultivated forms from sweet bell peppers and mild paprika to fiery cayenne and jalapeo. Capsicum annuum L. is a cultigen native to Mexico and Central America, domesticated approximately 6,000 years ago; it is now the most widely cultivated spice plant globally. Described by Linnaeus (1753). The epithet annuum means 'annual', though the plant is perennial in frost-free climates. The species contains over 200 named cultivar groups. All Capsicum pungency derives from capsaicinoids (especially capsaicin) concentrated in the placenta; bell/sweet forms lack the pungency gene. Multi-use: food, medicine, self-defence (oleoresin capsicum sprays), ornamental. Family Solanaceae.

Full sun; fertile, well-drained soils; warm tropical to subtropical conditions (minimum 20C for germination). Sow indoors 810 weeks before last frost in temperate regions. Very heat-demanding; productivity increases with warmth and sun.

• Annuum = annual (but perennial in frost-free climates); L. (Linnaeus, 1753); domesticated Mexico ~6,000 years ago
• 200+ cultivar groups: bell/sweet peppers, jalapeo, cayenne, paprika, serrano, poblano, ornamental types and more
• Capsaicin in placenta (not flesh/seeds); sweet forms lack pungency gene; multi-use: food, medicine, self-defence
• Genus Capsicum: 35+ species; Tropical America; Family Solanaceae; Order Solanales
• Full sun; fertile well-drained soils; warm (20C+); sow indoors early; very heat-demanding; Family Solanaceae

Capsicum annuum is one of the most consequential food plants in human history a Mexican native that, within decades of the Columbian Exchange, transformed the cuisines of Asia, Africa, Europe and the Middle East, introducing pungency and colour to dishes in every culture that adopted it, and now ranking among the four most widely traded agricultural commodities globally.

IMPORTANT: Pictures show the adult plant, which is not for sale. The offer is only for seeds.