Medusa Ornamental Pepper

Medusa is a compact ornamental pepper grown for its upright, twisted fruits, which mature from ivory through yellow and orange to bright red. A well-branched plant reaches about 6–8 inches tall and 4–6 inches wide, and one plant can display several fruit colors at once. [PanAmerican Seed](https://www.panamseed.com/products/045600001006603/ornamental-pepper-medusa/) identifies the selection as Capsicum annuum and gives its dimensions and fruit colors. ## Seasonal Interest [PanAmerican Seed](https://www.panamseed.com/products/045600001006603/ornamental-pepper-medusa/) lists flowering in summer and late summer. The ornamental fruits provide the more visible display as they mature through several colors. The cultivar is described as naturally dwarf and holds its fruit well, making it useful where a small, colorful plant is wanted. ## Site and use Give Medusa full sun and well-drained soil. Its compact size suits a small pot, a container combination, or a foreground position in a bed. The University of Florida’s [ornamental pepper guidance](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP105) describes ornamental peppers as warm-season plants and notes that cultivar choice affects foliage and fruit traits. Follow the specific plant label when deciding whether fruit is appropriate to handle or eat. ## Maintenance Water to keep the root zone from drying severely while allowing excess water to drain. Remove the plant when frost ends its seasonal display in cold climates. [PanAmerican Seed](https://www.panamseed.com/products/045600001006603/ornamental-pepper-medusa/) lists a 4-inch pot size and a 7–13 week finish for autumn production.