Deutsch
Species: Capsicum annuum
Origin: Bolivia
Distribution: Worldwide
SHU: 10,000 – 30,000
Heat level: 2/5
Bolivian Rainbow pepper typically grows to a height of 45-60 cm and a width of around 60 cm. It features dark green-purple leaves and purple flowers. After transplanting, it takes about 90 days to produce ripe fruits. As they ripen, the fruits transition from purple to light yellow, yellow, orange, and finally red. The fruits are about 2.5-3 cm long and around 1 cm wide, resembling water droplets and growing with the tip facing upwards.
All colors of the fruits are present on the same plant throughout the ripening process. Due to its distinctive growth and beautiful colors, the fruits of this pepper resemble colorful Christmas lights. Therefore, it is often grown purely as an ornamental pepper in pots. Although primarily ornamental, this pepper produces edible fruits with a mild, non-specific flavor, reminiscent of a typical bell pepper with a slight hint of spiciness.
Growing Conditions
Soil pH: 6.0-6.5
Sowing time: Mid to late February
Light requirements: Plant seedlings in a fully sunny location without excessive shading, with a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight exposure per day.
Optimal sowing temperature: Above 20 °C
Germination time: 7-21 days
Planting: Seedlings are transplanted directly into the soil or large pots at temperatures above 18 °C, typically from mid to late May in our climate. The optimal air temperature after transplanting is 21-27 °C.
Required pot size: If choosing to plant in pots, ensure a minimum volume of 10 liters.
Spacing within rows: 45-60 cm between seedlings (due to bushy growth)
Spacing between rows: 60-90 cm
Watering: In the field, water frequency depends on rainfall; during dry periods, water at least once a week. Water potted peppers as needed, ensuring the substrate around the roots remains moist.
Fertilization: From transplanting until flowering, apply foliar fertilizer (spraying over the leaves) once a week using a 19:6:20 formulation. During flowering until the end of harvest, use a 15:5:30 formulation.
