Chilli pepper

This bushy plant produces masses of upright fruits around 2.5cm (1in) in length which develop from yellow-purple to orange-red. This makes it very valuble as an indoor ornamental plant, suited to growing on a windowsill, although it is equally happy outside. Sow March to April indoors at a temperature of approximately 21oC (70oF), or outdoors in a sheltered, sunny position. The fruit are very hot, especially grown outdoors and should be ready to harvest from late June onwards. Under glass, or indoors, the plants may be susceptible to red spider mite. Care should be taken when handling chillies as they can cause irritation to skin and eyes. This plant has been awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit.