California Wonder Pepper: Classic Heirloom with Thick, Sweet Walls
California Wonder Pepper is a beloved heirloom variety that has stood the test of time since its introduction in 1928. This large, blocky sweet pepper matures in 68-80 days, producing thick-walled fruits that are perfect for stuffing, roasting, or enjoying fresh. With its consistent shape and size, measuring about 4 inches long and wide, this pepper has become a staple in gardens and kitchens across America.
These peppers offer a versatile culinary experience, starting green and ripening to a vibrant red. The thick walls provide a satisfying crunch and sweet flavor that intensifies as the pepper matures. California Wonder is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, making it as nutritious as it is delicious. Its sturdy structure holds up well in cooking, making it ideal for stuffed pepper recipes or as a colorful addition to salads and stir-fries.
California Wonder plants grow to a manageable height of 24-30 inches, making them suitable for both garden beds and large containers. With proper care, each plant can produce multiple harvests throughout the growing season. The peppers are ready to pick when they reach full size and have a deep green color, typically around 68-80 days after transplanting. For sweeter peppers with higher vitamin content, allow some fruits to ripen fully to red on the plant.
Growing Success Tips:
- Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date
- Transplant seedlings outdoors when soil temperatures reach 60-65°F
- Provide full sun and well-draining, fertile soil
- Water consistently and mulch to retain moisture
California Wonder Pepper is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Its reliability, productivity, and classic flavor make it a valuable addition to any vegetable garden or patio container. Whether you’re looking to recreate traditional recipes or experiment with new culinary creations, this pepper variety offers the perfect balance of flavor and versatility.
For the sweetest peppers, allow some fruits to fully ripen to red on the plant before harvesting.
Product Features
- Heirloom variety introduced in 1928
- Blocky fruits measuring 4″ x 4″
- Thick walls ideal for stuffing
- Matures from green to red
- Days to maturity: 68-80
- Plant spacing: 18 inches
- Height: 24-30 inches
- Full sun exposure required
- Suitable for containers and garden beds
Key Benefits
- Versatile for cooking and fresh eating
- Rich in vitamins A and C
- Productive over a long season
- Classic sweet pepper flavor
