Capsicum annuum 'Squirrel Defeater Spring'
fruit vegetable

Squirrel Defeater Pepper

Capsicum annuum 'Squirrel Defeater Spring'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fruit Vegetable

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial in warm climates

Native To

Central America

Toxicity

Fruit is edible; leaves and stems are toxic if ingested.

The Story

Plant Bio

A species of nightshade widely cultivated for its edible fruits, known as chili peppers or bell peppers. Plants are typically bushy, herbaceous annuals in temperate climates or short-lived perennials in warmer zones. This cultivar features a unique combination of ornamental and edible qualities, with vibrant fruit set against lush foliage.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesBright red peppers add color and visual interest to gardens and containers.
Practical UsesProvides fresh, spicy peppers for culinary uses year-round.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators and beneficial insects in vegetable gardens.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds ¼ inch deep in well-draining soil in early spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and root in 6 weeks.
  3. Transplant seedlings when 4 inches tall into full sun garden beds.
  4. Water consistently, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged.
  5. Fertilize every 2 weeks with a balanced vegetable fertilizer.
  6. Harvest when peppers turn vibrant red or desired color, typically 60-90 days after transplant.

Pro Tip

Use warm soil and full sun for best fruit production and flavor enhancement.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply once a week 🌱
  • Use organic compost to enrich soil
  • Prune to improve air circulation

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t plant in shaded areas
  • Refrain from using high nitrogen fertilizers during fruiting

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Harvest
Pest Check
Pinch
Plant
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant edible borderColorful container gardenSeasonal vegetable patch

Companion Plants

Basil Marigold Chives Carrots Onions

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Squirrel Defeater Pepper questions

What zones can Squirrel Defeater Pepper grow in?

Squirrel Defeater Pepper is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Squirrel Defeater Pepper deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Squirrel Defeater Pepper, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Squirrel Defeater Pepper bloom?

Squirrel Defeater Pepper typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Squirrel Defeater Pepper need full sun?

Squirrel Defeater Pepper does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Keep exploring

Explore the genus

Collections featuring this plant

Hardy in your zone?

Grow Squirrel Defeater Pepper with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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