Capsicum annuum (Bell Pepper) California Wonder – Classic, Sweet and High-Yielding Bell Pepper

Capsicum annuum (Sweet Pepper) California Wonder is one of the most popular and reliable bell pepper varieties worldwide. This classic bell pepper is known for its large, plump, sweet fruits and excellent yield. Ideal for both greenhouses and home gardens, California Wonder offers an early harvest and versatile culinary uses. Its robust growth and consistent fruit set have made this variety a favorite with gardeners and home cooks for decades.

Characteristics of Capsicum annuum (Bell Pepper) California Wonder

The California Wonder pepper produces large, square, plump bell peppers with glossy skin. The fruits are initially dark green and turn bright red as they ripen. The flavor is mild and sweet, making them delicious straight from the garden, but also perfect for cooking, grilling, or freezing.

Key Features:

• Type: Bell pepper / Capsicum annuum

• Taste: Sweet, mild and aromatic

• Fruit color: Dark green → bright red when ripe

• Fruit shape: Square, thick-walled

• Fruit weight: 150–200 grams

• Plant height: 60–90 cm

• Location: Full sun, warm and sheltered

• Harvest period: July – October

• Growing location: Greenhouse, open ground and large pots

Care and cultivation

Capsicum annuum California Wonder is relatively easy to grow and very reliable. It thrives in a sunny, warm environment with well-drained, fertile soil.

Cultivation advice:

• Sow: Indoors from February to April at 20–25°C.

• Prick out: When the seedlings have 2–3 true leaves.

• Planting out: After mid-May, as soon as the night temperature remains above 10°C.

• Water: Water regularly; keep the soil slightly moist, but avoid waterlogging.

• Fertilization: Use organic fertilizer or tomato food for optimal growth and fruit set.

• Support: In case of heavy fruit set, a stick or wire can help keep the plant upright.

• Sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for best yields.

This variety also grows well in pots from 12–20 litres, ideal for a balcony or terrace.

Taste and culinary applications

The California Wonder pepper is versatile in the kitchen. Its thick walls retain their flavor and texture when cooked, grilled, and roasted, making this variety suitable for a variety of dishes.

Applications:

• Fresh: In salads, sandwiches, wraps or as a healthy snack.

• Roasted or grilled: Gives an intense sweet flavor.

• Stuffed: Perfect for classic stuffed peppers with rice, vegetables or minced meat.

• Stir-fry dishes: The sturdy walls cook quickly and retain their bite.

• Canning or freezing: Excellent for long-term storage.

The rich red color and sweet aroma make this pepper both tasty and decorative on the plate.

Benefits of Capsicum annuum (Bell Pepper) California Wonder

1. Classic and reliable: A favorite with home cooks and gardeners for decades.

2. High yield: Large, uniform bell peppers per plant.

3. Sweet taste: Mild and juicy, suitable for all dishes.

4. Strong and healthy: Good resistance to changeable weather and diseases.

5. Versatile: Suitable for raw, cooking, grilling, stir-frying or pickling.

6. Decorative: Dark green to bright red colour gradient creates an attractive appearance in the garden and kitchen.

Conclusion

Capsicum annuum (Bell Pepper) California Wonder is an ideal choice for gardeners looking for a classic, reliable, and productive bell pepper. These large, sweet, blocky peppers are versatile and suitable for eating raw, cooked, or grilled. Thanks to their robust growth, early harvest, and consistent yield, California Wonder is perfect for greenhouses, vegetable gardens, or containers. Add California Wonder to your growing plan and enjoy an abundance of delicious, home-grown peppers all season long.