Bananarama Pepper
Capsicum annuum 'Bananarama'
Bananarama
About this plant
Capsicum annuum 'Bananarama' is a colorful pepper variety known for its long, banana-shaped fruits that ripen from pale yellow to orange and red. It is popular for ornamental use as well as culinary purposes due to its mild to medium heat and sweet flavor. The plant has attractive green foliage and produces small white flowers before fruiting.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Capsicum
- Family
- Solanaceae
- Higher classification
- Solanales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Central America
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated in home gardens and greenhouses worldwide, especially in temperate and subtropical regions.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, Southwest-facing, Southeast-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 20-30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.0
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, potting soil mix
Watering. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilizing. Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can reduce fruiting.
Capsicum annuum 'Bananarama' is a moderately easy pepper plant to grow. It prefers warm, sunny spots and well-draining soil. Watch out for overwatering, which can cause root problems, and pests like aphids. Regular watering and feeding help it thrive.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Bright yellow to orange elongated fruits, green foliage, white flowers
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Generally safe but avoid ingestion of large quantities; may cause mild stomach upset. Keep away from small children and pets to prevent accidental eating.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
People sensitive to pepper plants may experience mild skin irritation or allergic reactions when handling this plant. The main triggers are the plant's sap and pollen. To reduce exposure, wear gloves when pruning or harvesting and wash hands afterward.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot; under-watering causes wilting. Pests like aphids and spider mites may appear. Lack of sunlight can reduce fruit production.
Uses
Grown for ornamental appeal and culinary use; fruits can be eaten fresh, cooked, or used in sauces.
Notes
Prune lightly to encourage bushier growth and better airflow. Repot annually if grown indoors. Protect from frost and cold drafts.