Annuals

Capsicum annuum 'Sweet Banana'

Sweet Banana Pepper

UnknownCentral America

At a Glance

Typeannual
Habitupright bushy
Foliagedeciduous
Height18-24 inches
Width12-18 inches

Growing Zones

USDA Hardiness Zones

9a - 11b
Zone 9a
Zone 9b
Zone 10a
Zone 10b
Zone 11a
Zone 11b
These zones indicate the coldest temperatures this plant can typically survive.
Frost Tolerancetender

Key Features

Attracts Pollinators
Container Friendly
Maintenancelow

Overview

Capsicum annuum 'Sweet Banana' is a compact, bushy annual pepper plant that produces distinctive pale yellow to cream-colored fruits resembling small bananas. The plant typically reaches 18-24 inches in height with dark green, oval-shaped leaves that are smooth and slightly glossy. The peppers start pale yellow-green and mature to a bright yellow or cream color, measuring 4-6 inches long and 1-2 inches wide with a gently curved, tapered shape. The sweet, mild fruits have thick walls and virtually no heat, making them excellent for fresh eating, stuffing, or cooking. Small white flowers appear in summer, followed by the characteristic pendant fruits that hang from the branches. Capsicum annuum 'Sweet Banana' is distinguished from hot banana peppers by its complete lack of capsaicin and sweeter flavor profile, making it ideal for gardeners seeking mild pepper varieties.

Native Range

Capsicum annuum is native to Central America and Mexico, where wild forms have been cultivated for thousands of years. The species was domesticated in these regions before spreading worldwide through trade and colonization.

Suggested Uses

Capsicum annuum 'Sweet Banana' works well in vegetable gardens, raised beds, and containers. The mild, sweet peppers are excellent for fresh eating, salads, stuffing, stir-fries, and pickling. Plants also make attractive additions to edible landscapes and can be grown as ornamental plants in mixed borders due to their colorful fruits.

How to Identify

Capsicum annuum 'Sweet Banana' can be identified by its pale yellow to cream-colored fruits that are 4-6 inches long with a distinctive curved, tapered shape resembling small bananas. The fruits hang downward from the plant rather than pointing upward like some pepper varieties. The plant itself is compact and bushy, typically 18-24 inches tall, with smooth dark green leaves and small white flowers. When tasted, the peppers are completely mild and sweet with no heat.

Appearance

Size & Dimensions

Height1'6" - 2'
Width/Spread1' - 1'6"

Colors

Flower Colors

white

Foliage Colors

green

Bloom Information

Bloom Period

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Summer
mid to late summer

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

white

Foliage Description

dark green

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

Full Sun
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight

Soil Requirements

pH Range6.0 - 7.0(Neutral)
357912
Soil Types
loam
Drainage
well drained

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate

Frost Tolerance

tender

Time to Maturity

65-75 days

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Capsicum annuum 'Sweet Banana' requires warm conditions and consistent moisture for optimal growth. Plant in well-draining soil enriched with compost and maintain even moisture throughout the growing season, avoiding both drought stress and waterlogged conditions. Feed with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks once flowering begins, or use a slow-release fertilizer at planting time. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. In cooler climates, consider using black plastic mulch or row covers to warm the soil and extend the growing season.

Pruning

Capsicum annuum 'Sweet Banana' requires minimal pruning but benefits from pinching the first few flowers to encourage stronger plant development. Remove any damaged, diseased, or dead branches throughout the season. Light pruning of lower branches can improve air circulation and reduce disease risk, but avoid heavy pruning as it may reduce fruit production.

Maintenance Level

low

Container Growing

✓ Suitable for container growing

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Capsicum annuum 'Sweet Banana' fruits and leaves are generally safe for human consumption. The ripe peppers are completely mild and non-toxic. However, some individuals may experience sensitivity to peppers. Keep away from pets, as large quantities of pepper plants may cause mild digestive upset in dogs and cats.

Planting Guide

Planting Methods & Timing

Planting Method

both

Indoor Start

8 weeks before last frost

Direct Sow Timing

after last frost when soil temperature reaches 65°F

Days to Maturity

65–75 days

Plant Spacing

18 inches

Companion Planting

Good Companions

tomatoes
basil
oregano
parsley
carrots
onions
marigolds

Avoid Planting With

fennel
brassicas
beans
Capsicum annuum 'Sweet Banana' (Sweet Banana Pepper) - Identification & Care Guide | PlantRef