How to Grow Bon Bon Pepper
Bon Bon Pepper
Capsicum annuum
vegetableBon Bon is a compact, ornamental bell pepper variety that produces small, blocky peppers in vibrant colors on dwarf plants. Originally bred in Japan, it's prized for both its aesthetic appeal and edible fruit. The plants are ideal for container gardening and small spaces.
When should you plant Bon Bon Pepper in your zone?
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Example Bon Bon Pepper timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Bon Bon Pepper
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Bon Bon Pepper
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Bon Bon Pepper dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Best in zones 9b-11; can be grown in zones 3-8 as annual with season extension
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Seedling
3-4 weeksYoung plants with 2-4 true leaves, compact growth habit emerging
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost. Keep soil warm (70-85°F). Provide bright light to prevent legginess. Bottom heat accelerates germination.
Vegetative
4-6 weeksPlants develop multiple branches with dense foliage; characteristic compact, dwarf form becomes apparent
Harden off seedlings gradually before transplanting. Plant after all frost danger passes. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with balanced fertilizer. Pinch early flowers if desired to encourage bushier growth.
Flowering
3-4 weeksDelicate white or pale purple flowers appear at branch terminals; buds form in clusters
Maintain consistent watering and temperatures (65-80°F optimal). Ensure adequate pollination via gentle shaking or bee activity. Do not over-fertilize with nitrogen.
Fruiting
4-8 weeks per flushSmall blocky peppers develop and mature from green to red, yellow, orange, or other colors depending on variety
Continue regular watering and feeding with lower-nitrogen fertilizer. Support branches if laden with fruit. Harvest regularly to encourage more production. Fruit reaches full color maturity at 60-90 days after transplanting.
Peak Production
8-12+ weeksPlant produces continuous waves of mature peppers over several months
Maintain consistent care. Prune any dead or diseased growth. In fall, gradually reduce watering if transitioning to indoor culture. Can be overwintered indoors in cooler climates.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Increase humidity to discourage mites.
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Spray with water or insecticidal soap. Release ladybugs. Use yellow sticky traps. Apply neem oil if infestation is severe.
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Yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Reflective mulches deter adults.
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Remove affected foliage. Use blue sticky traps. Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
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Ensure good air circulation. Spray with sulfur or potassium bicarbonate. Remove infected leaves.
Uses
Fresh eating and garnish
CulinaryBon Bon peppers are sweet and mild with thin walls, perfect for fresh eating, slicing into salads, or using as colorful edible garnishes. Their compact size makes them ideal for stuffing with cheese or grains. [source]
Container and landscape decoration
OrnamentalThe compact dwarf form and abundance of colorful fruit make Bon Bon an excellent ornamental choice for patios, balconies, windowsills, and decorative garden containers. Plants are attractive throughout the growing season. [source]
Stir-fries and cooking
CulinaryThe small peppers are well-suited for Asian stir-fries, roasting whole, grilling, or pickling. Their thin walls cook quickly and evenly. [source]
Indoor houseplant
HouseholdBon Bon peppers can be grown indoors on sunny windowsills or under grow lights, making them excellent long-season houseplants that provide both visual interest and edible fruit. [source]
Vitamin C and antioxidants
MedicinalPeppers are rich in vitamin C, capsaicinoids, and antioxidants that support immune health and inflammation reduction. Ripe peppers contain higher nutrient levels than green ones. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Peppers can be harvested green (immature) or left on the plant to reach their mature color (red, yellow, orange, etc.). Use pruners or scissors to cut peppers to avoid damaging the plant. Regular harvesting encourages continuous production. Mature peppers have fuller flavor and more nutritional content. Each plant typically produces 20-40+ small peppers per season.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Bon Bon peppers were originally developed in Japan and are particularly popular in Asian gardening and cuisine. Their name reflects their small, decorative appearance.
- 🌱 The compact dwarf form of Bon Bon makes it ideal for gardeners with limited space—plants typically grow only 12-18 inches tall while still producing dozens of peppers.
- 🌱 Bon Bon peppers can be successfully overwintered indoors as houseplants in cooler climates, allowing for year-round fruit production with proper care and lighting.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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