Capsicum annuum (Cerasiforme Group)

The Cerasiforme Group of Capsicum annuum is the Cherry Pepper.  The pod-shaped pepper resembles a round fleshy cherry or cherry tomato.  The pepper has a sweet flavor and mild to moderate hot taste. The plant is a member of the Solanaceae or Nightshade family. Other common names include Hungarian Cherry Pepper, Cherry Bomb Pepper, and Sweet Cherry Chile Pepper.

The plant is native to the tropical areas of Central and South America. They grow best during warm humid days and cool nights. The Cherry Pepper is frequently grown in Europe in home gardens during the summer. In Hungary, they frequently pickle the peppers to serve as appetizers. The plant is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin, and Iron.

The genus name, Capsicum, comes from the Greek word, Kapto, which means "to bite." Most species of this plant contain capsaicin. This chemical produces a burning sensation in the mouth when eaten. 

The Cherry Pepper prefers sunlight and moist, well-drained soil. They are tender plants and grow best in high humidity with warm days from 70-80 degrees and cool nights from 55-65 degrees. Adding compost to the soil will benefit your growing plant.  Adding sand or perlite to the soil will improve drainage. The best-growing conditions include very warm soil.  A few weeks before planting, cover the ground with black plastic which will warm the soil.

The plant is small and compact. The fruits are small, round to slightly ovate. The skin is glossy and smooth. They ripen from green to red when mature. The inside of the cavity contains many round flat cream-colored seeds. The stems are dark green and fibrous. The plant can produce an abundance of peppers throughout its growing season. 

The pepper may be served raw or cooked. Frequently, they are used as a condiment or garnish. They may be brined, grilled, smoked, or pickled.

Cherry Pepper is a good variety to plant in a home garden. During the summer months, it will serve as an ornamental plant with edible fruits.

Insects, Diseases ad Other Plant Problems:

Wilt, root rot, bacterial leaf spot, powdery mildew, pod rot, and black mold may affect this plant. Insects causing damage include aphids, flea beetles, spider mites, thrips, leaf miners, root know nematodes, armyworms, pepper hornworms, pepper weevils, and cutworms.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Vegetables, Herbs, Fruits, and Nuts" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.   

More information on Capsicum annuum.