Capsicum annuum (Peperoni) Cigaretta BIO – Fine, elongated organic sweet pepper

The Capsicum annuum (Peperoni) Sigaretta BIO is a traditional Italian pepper known for its long, thin, elegant fruits and mild, aromatic flavor. This organic variety is particularly popular in Mediterranean vegetable gardens, where it is prized for its high productivity, robust health, and excellent culinary qualities. Thanks to its organic cultivation method, Sigaretta BIO an ideal choice for gardeners who consciously work with sustainable, chemical-free seeds.

Origin and unique characteristics

The Sigaretta pepper belongs to the Italian group of narrow, elongated peppers. The fruits are 12–20 cm long, thin in diameter, and slightly curved—a shape reminiscent of a cigar, hence the name Sigaretta . As they ripen, the peppers turn from bright green to a warm red. The skin is thin and shiny, while the flesh remains crisp and aromatic, even when heated.

The flavor is mildly sweet and completely without heat. This makes this pepper perfect for families, Mediterranean dishes, and lovers of mild yet distinctly aromatic peppers. Because it's an organic variety, the seeds come from organically grown mother plants, free from chemical treatments, and are ideal for organic gardeners and permaculture projects.

Growth habit and cultivation information

The Capsicum annuum Sigaretta BIO is a strong, fast-growing plant that thrives in warm, sunny conditions. The plants typically reach 60–80 cm in height and form an open, airy structure that allows plenty of light to penetrate—ideal for even ripening of the numerous fruits.

Optimal growing conditions:

• Sowing: February to April indoors, warm and light.

• Germination temperature: 22–26°C for smooth germination.

• Prick out: as soon as the seedlings have two true leaves.

• Plant out: after mid-May, when the night frost has disappeared.

• Location: Sunny, warm, sheltered; a greenhouse or south-facing wall increases production.

• Soil: humus-rich, airy and well-draining, preferably organic vegetable garden soil.

The plant produces a large number of narrow peppers, often in clusters, guaranteeing a bountiful harvest. Regular watering is important, but the soil should never remain wet for extended periods. An organic fertilizer based on compost, algae, or plant extracts encourages consistent fruit development. The thin fruits are lightweight, so support is usually unnecessary.

Harvest and culinary uses

The Peperoni Cigaretta BIO is a productive variety with a long harvest season. The peppers can be harvested either green or red, depending on the desired flavor profile:

• Harvested green: fresh, slightly sweet and crunchy

• Red harvested: sweeter, fuller and more aromatic

Culinary applications where Sigaretta BIO shines:

• Friggitelli-style baking or frying, an Italian classic

• Grill or roast, where the thin skin subtly caramelizes

• Raw in salads, especially in thin strips

• Canning or fermenting, ideal because of the narrow shape

• Stir-frying or short-frying in Mediterranean and Asian dishes

• Decorative in antipasti dishes, thanks to the elegant, slender shape

The thin fruit wall ensures quick cooking in hot preparations and makes the peppers particularly suitable for light, aromatic dishes.

Why choose Peperoni Cigaretta BIO?

• 100% organically grown and free from chemical treatments

• Long, slender fruits 12–20 cm

• Mild, aromatic taste without spiciness

• Strong, productive plant with a long harvest period

• Ideal for baking, grilling, preserving and salads

• Suitable for greenhouses, pots and open ground