Capsicum Chinese Five-Colour - 5 Seeds

Chinese Five-Colour is a stunning ornamental and edible chili variety known for its vibrant, multicoloured fruits. Each plant produces small, cone-shaped peppers (about 2–4 cm long) that change colour as they ripen—typically cycling through cream, purple, yellow, orange, and red. All five colours can appear on the same plant at once, creating a dazzling display.

Fruit shape: Small, conical, upright (pointing up)

Fruit size: 2–4 cm long

Colour progression: Cream → Purple → Yellow → Orange → Red

Skin: Smooth and glossy

Heat level: 30,000–50,000 Scoville units (hot)

Flavour: Sharp, spicy, with a crisp bite (can be used fresh or dried)

Though prized for its beauty, it’s also fully edible and packs a punch similar to a cayenne pepper.

Growing Conditions

Light: Full sun (6–8 hours/day)

Soil: Fertile, well-draining soil with pH 6.0–6.8

Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy

Fertilizing: Start with balanced fertilizer (10-10-10), then switch to low-nitrogen once flowering begins

Height: 45–60 cm

Spacing: 30–45 cm between plants

These compact plants are great for containers, borders, or raised beds, adding both colour and heat to any garden.

Sowing Instructions

Start indoors: 8–10 weeks before the last frost date

Seed depth: 0.5–1 cm

Germination temperature: 24–30°C – bottom heat helps

Germination time: 10–21 days

Transplanting: After danger of frost, when nighttime temperatures stay above 15°C

Hardening off: Gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions over 7–10 days

Common Pests & Problems

Aphids: Cluster on new growth; remove with water spray or neem oil

Whiteflies: Attracted to undersides of leaves; control with sticky traps

Spider mites: Leave fine webs and speckled leaves; use miticides or water spray

Thrips: Cause distorted growth; manage with neem oil or insecticidal soap

Cutworms: Can sever young plants at the base; use collars or mulch

Flea beetles: Create tiny holes in leaves; protect with floating row covers

Blossom end rot: Caused by calcium deficiency and inconsistent watering; ensure even moisture and add calcium if needed