Wicked Ornamental Pepper

Wicked is a compact ornamental Capsicum annuum grown for large, colorful peppers rather than showy flowers. PanAmerican Seed’s [product page](https://www.panamseed.com/Products/045600001036965/ornamental-pepper-wicked/) reports fruit that begins purple and matures red, with mild heat, on an upright plant suited to seasonal containers. ## Site and Growing Grow Wicked in sun. The breeder lists a height of 6–8 inches and a spread of 5–7 inches, with fruit about 1 by 2.75 inches. It is a determinate selection, so plants can be displayed as the first fruit colors or as some fruit begins turning red. PanAmerican Seed recommends it for autumn mixed containers; [Garden Goods Direct](https://gardengoodsdirect.com/products/wicked-ornamental-pepper) also describes its compact size and purple-to-red fruit for porch pots and seasonal displays. ## Season and Display The breeder lists summer and autumn bloom, though the colorful fruit is the main ornamental feature. The purple-to-red progression adds a changing display as the peppers mature. Although Capsicum annuum includes edible-fruited plants, this selection is marketed primarily as an ornamental; the consulted breeder page notes mild heat but does not give a culinary recommendation. ## Maintenance Place the plant where it receives sun and use a draining container mix. [Garden Goods Direct](https://gardengoodsdirect.com/products/wicked-ornamental-pepper) advises keeping container moisture consistent during hot weather while avoiding standing water. Remove the seasonal plant after frost damages it; the breeder lists autumn finishing as a production use.