Midnight Fire Ornamental Pepper

Midnight Fire is a compact ornamental pepper with dark foliage and purple fruits that mature to bright red. [PanAmerican Seed](https://www.panamseed.com/Products/045600001036964/ornamental-pepper-midnight-fire/) lists a mounded, spreading plant about 9–12 inches tall and 14–16 inches wide, flowering in summer and autumn. Its foliage and ripening fruit make it a seasonal accent in a pot or mixed planting. ## Seasonal Interest The changing fruit color supplies a visual sequence as the purple fruit turns red. The breeder describes Midnight Fire for autumn combination planters and large containers, while [Proven Winners](https://www.provenwinners.com/plants/capsicum/midnight-fire-ornamental-pepper-capsicum-annuum) also lists summer and fall flowering. ## Site and care Plant in full sun in well-drained soil. The University of Florida’s [ornamental pepper guidance](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP105) explains that these are warm-season plants in frost-prone climates and that foliage and fruit traits vary by cultivar. Use the cultivar dimensions when placing it in a container or bed. ## Maintenance The [Proven Winners profile](https://www.provenwinners.com/plants/capsicum/midnight-fire-ornamental-pepper-capsicum-annuum) lists low water needs and easy care. In frost-prone areas, treat the plant as a seasonal annual and remove it after cold weather ends its display.