Grossum cultivar group of the species Capsicum annuum. Peppers are native to Mexico, Central America, and northern South America. Pepper seeds were yellow banana peppers to Spain in 1493 and then spread through Europe and Asia. The mild bell pepper cultivar was developed in the 1920s, in Szeged, Hungary.
The name pepper was given by Europeans when Christopher Columbus brought the plant back to Europe. Piper nigrum originating from India, was a highly prized condiment. The most common colors of bell peppers are green, yellow, orange and red. Other colors include brown, white, lavender, and dark purple, depending on the variety. Most typically, unripe fruits are green or, less commonly, pale yellow or purple.
Red bell peppers are simply ripened green peppers, although the Permagreen variety maintains its green color even when fully ripe. Like the tomato, bell peppers are botanical fruits but culinary vegetables. Pieces of bell pepper are commonly used in garden salads and as toppings on pizza. The bell pepper is the only member of the genus Capsicum that does not produce capsaicin, a lipophilic chemical that can cause a strong burning sensation when it comes in contact with mucous membranes. Percentages are roughly approximated using US recommendations for adults.
China is the world’s largest producer of bell and chili peppers, followed by Mexico, Turkey, Indonesia, and the United States. North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox”. Paprika: A Spicy Memoir from Hungary. Agricultural Marketing Resource Center, US Department of Agriculture. Vegetable of the Month: Bell Pepper”. University of the District of Columbia. Center for Nutrition, Diet and Health.
US Western Institute for Food Safety and Security. While typically bright yellow, it is possible for them to change to green, red, or orange as they ripen. The plant requires full sun, like other Capsicum annuum varieties, and should be treated the same as most other plants in the pepper family. Plants can be grown from seed and cuttings. A mature plant will reach 1 to 2 feet tall and can be grown in many climates, but prefer warmer climates.
