Cubanelle Pepper Plant – Sweet, Mild, and Perfect for Cooking
The Cubanelle pepper, also known as the Italian frying pepper, is a favorite among home gardeners and chefs alike. These elongated, thin-walled peppers start off light green and ripen to shades of orange and red, offering a sweet, mild flavor with just a hint of heat. Ideal for sautéing, stuffing, roasting, or slicing into salads, Cubanelle peppers are a versatile addition to any kitchen garden. The plants are productive, heat-loving, and thrive in both garden beds and containers.
Mild heat (100–1,000 Scoville units)
Our Hungaian hot wax pepper plants come in a 3" square pot, fully hardened off and ready to be planted directly into your garden. These sun-loving plants thrive with warmth, consistent care, and a little attention. Below is everything you need to know to grow healthy, productive pepper plants.
These pepper plants need full sun- at least 6-8 hours daily for strong growth and high yields.
Use well-draining, nutrient-rich soil and mix in compost or aged manure before planting for added fertility.
Space plants 18-24 inches apart in rows 24-36 inches apart. Plant at the same depth they were growing in the pot. Stake or cage the plants if the fruits become heavy.
Water deeply 1-2 times a week, keeping soil consistently moist but not soggy. Avoid overhead watering by watering at the base to reduce disease risk. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time (10-10-10) and repeat fertilizing every 3-4 weeks for best results. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizer, which cause lush foliage but fewer fruits.
Cubanelle peppers are typically harvested when they are light green, but they will turn red as they ripen for a sweeter flavor. Harvest regularly to encourage more fruit production. Use scissors or pruners to cut the peppers from the plant, avoiding damage to the stem.
Extra Tips:
Ensure evening watering and adequate calcium to prevent end-blossom rot and pinch off early flowers on young transplants to promote stronger root growth.