# Cayenne

Source: https://shop.homegrowngardenschicago.com/product/cayenne/
Published: 2024-02-29
Updated: 2026-04-01

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## **CAYENNE PEPPER (*Capsicum annuum*)**

**Transplant | Mid–Late May | Annual**

Cayenne peppers are a classic garden staple known for their long, slender shape and bold, fiery heat. The thin, curved peppers grow 4–6 inches long and mature from green to vibrant red, producing abundant harvests throughout the summer.

With their bright, spicy flavor, cayenne peppers are widely used fresh, dried, or ground into powder. They are perfect for hot sauces, seasoning blends, drying, and adding heat to a wide variety of dishes.

Highly productive and easy to grow, cayenne pepper plants produce generous yields and are a favorite for gardeners looking to grow their own spice.

## Growing Details

**Spice Level:** Hot\
**Scoville Heat Units:** 30,000–50,000 SHU\
**Harvest:** Harvest when peppers turn bright red for the best flavor and heat\
**Plant Spacing:** 2 ft\
**Sun:** Full sun\
**Cold Tolerance:** Warm-season crop; plant after danger of frost

## Garden Companions

**Best planted with:**\
Basil, tomatoes, onions, carrots, oregano

**Benefits:**\
Companion plants attract beneficial insects and support healthy garden growth.

**Avoid planting near:**\
Fennel, which may inhibit pepper growth.

## Pro Growing Tips

• Allow peppers to fully ripen red for maximum heat and flavor\
• Excellent for drying and making homemade cayenne powder\
• Harvest frequently to encourage continued fruit production\
• Thrives in warm soil with consistent sunlight

## Health Highlights

**Capsaicin-rich peppers**\
Cayenne peppers are high in capsaicin, known for its metabolism-supporting properties.

**Vitamin-rich vegetable**\
Provides vitamins A and C along with beneficial antioxidants.

**Supports circulation**\
Capsaicin has been studied for potential circulation and metabolic benefits.

*Pre-order now for productive summer transplants ready for planting after the last frost.*