SproutSmart
SproutSmart Intelligent Garden Sowing

Calico

Pepper

Planting Schedule

Add Calico to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.
Botanical illustration of Calico
70d to harvest

A riot of color from the moment the first fruits blush on—Calico pepper delivers glossy, lantern-like peppers that ripen through vivid bands of cream, chartreuse, and fiery red, like a painter’s palette held upright. The flavor is bright and piquant with a crisp, snappy bite, making each pepper a vivid accent for fresh display and bold, colorful preparations. Ideal for gardeners who want ornamental impact as well as a lively, peppery character in every harvest window (about 70 days to maturity).

Crop Dates

Growing note: Frost-free Zone 12a supports continuous outdoor production.
MilestoneDate
ClimateFrost-Free Climate
Growing ApproachContinuous Production

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity70
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitUpright
Support NeededStake
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)75
Min Soil Temp (°F)60
Min Night Temp (°F)50
Harden Off (days)10

Frequently Asked Questions


What pest is most likely to hit Capsicum annuum “Calico,” and how do I control it?
Watch for aphids and especially spider mites on the undersides of Calico pepper leaves, which can cause stippling and leaf drop. Spray plants with a strong stream of water first, then use insecticidal soap (or horticultural oil) and repeat every 5–7 days until no new mites/aphids appear. Avoid excess nitrogen because fast, tender growth attracts more sap-suckers.
How can I tell when Calico peppers are ready to harvest?
Harvest when fruits reach full size and the color has clearly shifted to the mature Calico pattern (not just partially colored). Gently lift and twist the pepper; mature fruits should detach with minimal resistance, and unripe peppers will often look smaller and stay firm without full color.
Botanical illustration of Calico

A riot of color from the moment the first fruits blush on—Calico pepper delivers glossy, lantern-like peppers that ripen through vivid bands of cream, chartreuse, and fiery red, like a painter’s palette held upright. The flavor is bright and piquant with a crisp, snappy bite, making each pepper a vivid accent for fresh display and bold, colorful preparations. Ideal for gardeners who want ornamental impact as well as a lively, peppery character in every harvest window (about 70 days to maturity).