Bell Peppers

Species name: Capsicum annuum

Although cultivars of capsicum are commonly referred to as peppers, they are in no way related to pepper of the Piper genus. Bell peppers belong to the capsicum family. In fact in countries such as the UK and Australia, bell peppers are called capsicums. They are indigenous to Central America, South America, and Mexico. Pepper seeds collected by Spanish explorers were taken back to Spain in 1493, and from there the popularity of the bell pepper spread through Europe and reached as far as Asia. The pepper was found to adapt to a vast array of climates, further promoting its popularity wherever it would grow The bell pepper is easily grown in temperate regions, either in green rooms or under glass. The bell pepper is now used internationally, and is a staple in many cultural dishes.