Bird's Eye Chili
Capsicum annuum
A bushy perennial shrub featuring small, pointed, upright green fruit that matures to vibrant red. The plant has ovate, pointed green leaves and small white flowers.
- Light
- Full sun; at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day is ideal.
- Water
- Moderate; water when the top inch of soil feels dry. It has some drought tolerance once established, but fruit production suffers without consistent moisture.
- Growth
- Perennial shrub often grown as an annual; reaches 1.5 to 3 feet in height and spread; moderate growth rate.
Care instructions
Provide full sun and consistent warmth. Plant in well-draining soil and water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun; at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day is ideal.
Watering
Moderate; water when the top inch of soil feels dry. It has some drought tolerance once established, but fruit production suffers without consistent moisture.
Soil
Well-drained, loamy or sandy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0).
Hardiness zone
Zones 9–11 (grown as an annual in cooler climates)
Growth habit
Perennial shrub often grown as an annual; reaches 1.5 to 3 feet in height and spread; moderate growth rate.
Bloom season
Late spring through summer; produces small, star-shaped white or greenish-white flowers.
Propagation
Typically grown from seeds sown indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost; can also be propagated by stem cuttings.
Common pests & issues
Susceptible to aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Common diseases include leaf spot, mosaic virus, and root rot if soil drainage is poor.
Similar species
Capsicum frutescens (Thai Pepper) - distinguished by flower structure and fruit orientation; Capsicum chinense (Habanero) - distinguished by more wrinkled fruit and different leaf textures.