LeafbaseThe modern encyclopedia for plants and trees
Capsicum
Plant of the day

Capsicum annuum

CapsicumHerb

Capsicum annuum is a flowering plant in the family Solanaceae (nightshades), native to the northern regions of South America and to southwestern North America. The plant produces berries of many colors including red, green, and yellow, often with pungent taste. It is one of the oldest cultivated crops, with domestication dating back to around 6,000 years ago in regions of Mexico. The genus Capsicum has over 30 species but Capsicum annuum is the primary species in its genus, as it has been widely cultivated for human consumption for a substantial amount of time and has spread across the world. This species has many uses in culinary, medicine, self-defense, and ornamental applications.

FamilySolanaceae
GenusCapsicum
NativeSouth America
LifespanPerennial (often cultivated as an annual)

About Capsicum annuum

Capsicum annuum is a flowering plant in the family Solanaceae (nightshades), native to the northern regions of South America and to southwestern North America. The plant produces berries of many colors including red, green, and yellow, often with pungent taste. It is one of the oldest cultivated crops, with domestication dating back to around 6,000 years ago in regions of Mexico. The genus Capsicum has over 30 species but Capsicum annuum is the primary species in its genus, as it has been widely cultivated for human consumption for a substantial amount of time and has spread across the world. This species has many uses in culinary, medicine, self-defense, and ornamental applications.

Common Names

EnglishCapsicum
தமிழ்சீமை மிளகாய்
മലയാളംവറ്റൽ മുളക്
తెలుగుకాప్సికం ఆనం

Native Range

South America is listed as part of the native range.

Native to South America.

Plant Identifier

Not sure about this plant? Upload a photo and our AI will help you identify it.

Identify Plant

Key Features

  • Tagged as Herb
  • Tagged as Perennial
  • Tagged as Evergreen

Benefits

Did You Know?

Capsicum annuum is a flowering plant in the family Solanaceae (nightshades), native to the northern regions of South America and to southwestern North America. The plant produces berries of many colors including red, green, and yellow, often with pungent taste. It is one of the oldest cultivated crops, with domestication dating back to around 6,000 years ago in regions of Mexico. The genus Capsicum has over 30 species but Capsicum annuum is the primary species in its genus, as it has been widely cultivated for human consumption for a substantial amount of time and has spread across the world. This species has many uses in culinary, medicine, self-defense, and ornamental applications.

Love this plant?Add it to your collection and get personalized care tips.
Add to My Collection
Explore similar plantsAfrican BasilAglaonemaAlocasiaAloe