Pepper | Shishito
As the fall planting season approaches, consider adding the intriguing Shishito Pepper to your garden lineup. Known for its citrusy and slightly smoky flavor, this frost-sensitive perennial is typically grown as an annual and is a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.
Plant Profile:
Name: Shishito Pepper
Type: Frost-sensitive Perennial (grown as an annual)
Color: Medium Green, ripening to Red
Taste: Citrusy and Slightly Smoky
Water: Water every other day, make sure the water is moist, not soggy
Shishito Peppers are harvested when green and about 2”-4” long for a milder flavor, but they can also be left on the plant to mature to a bright red, which intensifies their taste. These peppers are predominantly mild, though approximately one in every ten carries a surprising heat, adding a fun and unpredictable twist to your cooking!
Growing Tips:
Sun Requirements: Full sun for optimal growth.
Harvesting: Wash hands thoroughly after harvesting or wear gloves to avoid any irritation from the pepper’s capsaicin.
Shishito Peppers are harvested when green and about 2”-4” long for a milder flavor, but they can also be left on the plant to mature to a bright red, which intensifies their taste. These peppers are predominantly mild, though approximately one in every ten carries a surprising heat, adding a fun and unpredictable twist to your cooking!
Why Grow Shishito Peppers?
Flavorful Addition to Meals: Excellent for frying, grilling, or eating raw, Shishito Peppers are versatile in the kitchen.
Ornamental Appeal: Their bright green, slightly wrinkled appearance adds visual interest to your garden.
Quick Harvest: Ready to pick in just a few months, providing quick gratification from your gardening efforts.