Capsicum 'Perennial'

Perennial is a hardy, long-lived perennial variety of capsicum, living 4 to 5 years under favourable conditions. Produces masses of thin, red, horn-shaped fruits about 7cm long. 10-11 weeks to harvest. 20 seeds per packet.
Capsicum 'Perennial'
Capsicum 'Perennial'
Price Per Packet: $ 2.50

Growing Advice

Scientific Name: Capsicum annuum var. annuum

Common Names: Capsicum 'Perennial', Perennial Capsicum

Family: Solanaceae

Origin

The species Capsicum annuum is native to the Central Americas, the origins of this heirloom variety are unknown.

Culinary Uses

Capsicum 'Perennial' fruits are small but are produced in masses, so take advantage of this by using individual capsicums diced into single servings for salads or sandwiches.  Or use many at a time in sauces and salsa.  They even make great raw snacks picked straight from the garden as you work.  Can be eaten green or red.  

Growing Tips

This is an easy to grow variety.  Pick out shoot tips to encourage bushier growth and higher fruit production.  Pick capsicum fruits regularly to encourage further flower production.  Stake plants as they become larger to support the weight of the fruits.  This variety is resistant to capsicum wilt.  While most capsicum varieties are capable for living more than one growing season especially in warmer climates, this perennial variety will reliable live for longer than other heirloom varieties.  Due to its hardiness and long-lived nature, growers who like to graft less vigorous varieties will often use this variety as a rootstock.  Fertilise soil well with an organic fertiliser but don't over-fertilise as plants are coming into flower or they'll produce excess leaves and few fruit. 

When To Sow

Capsicum 'Perennial' can be sown any time of the year in subtropical and tropical regions of Australia.  In temperate areas of Australia sow from September to November to allow for a long growing season.

How To Sow

Choose a growing site with free-draining soil that receives full sun for highest fruit set, but this variety will also produce reliably in light shade.  Sow seed 6mm deep spacing plants about 45cm apart to allow plenty of room for growth.

Germination Time

Capsicum 'Perennial' takes between 12 and 24 days to germinate from seed

Time To Harvest

Your first perennial capsicums will be ready to harvest about 10 to 11 weeks after sowing.