Shishito peppers have become increasingly popular with home gardeners and foodies alike. These peppers are known for their mild, slightly smoky flavor and versatility in cooking. If you’re curious about growing these peppers or simply want to know more about them, you might be wondering, “How big do shishito peppers get?” This article will cover everything you need to know about the size and characteristics of shishito peppers.
What are Shishito Peppers?
Shishito peppers are East Asian peppers that are commonly grown and consumed in Japan. The Japanese heirloom is known for its thin walls and mild, sweet flavor. The pepper’s skin wrinkles, giving it a similar appearance to ground cherries; in Korea, they are referred to as kkwarigochu (ground cherry pepper).
Most shishito peppers are mild, but approximately one in ten peppers packs a spicy punch, adding a bit of excitement to your meal. Shishito peppers are versatile and can be used in various dishes, such as stir-fries and salads, or served blistered and salted as an appetizer.
Size and Appearance
Typically, shishito peppers are harvested when they are green and measure between 3 to 5 inches in length. The peppers have a slender shape with folds and creases on their surface, and they are lightweight because of their thin skin and walls.
When fully mature, shishito peppers turn a deep red color; however, they are usually picked while still green to maintain their crisp texture.
Here is a quick reference guide to shishito pepper characteristics:
- Length: 3-4 inches
- Diameter: 0.5-0.75 inches
- Color: Pale green to red
- Flavor: Sweet and smoky, with a mild heat (0-200 SHUs)
How Big Do Shishito Pepper Plants Get?
The size of shishito pepper plants is also an important consideration for home gardeners. Shishito pepper plants typically grow to be about 12 to 18 inches tall and wide. Compared to other pepper varieties, such as jalapeño plants that can grow to 3-4 feet tall, shishito pepper plants are relatively small. Their compact size makes them ideal for container gardening.
Growing Shishito Peppers
Shishito peppers are easy to grow, making them a popular choice for home gardens. Here are a few tips for growing shishito peppers:
- Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before transplanting
- Transplant seedlings outdoors 2–4 weeks after the average frost date
- Plant in soil with temperatures between 70°F to 90°F
- Ensure daytime temperatures around 70°F and nighttime temperatures around 55°F
- Harvest when the peppers are green and 2–4 inches long
Shishito peppers have simple growing requirements, produce an early harvest, and blend well with many recipes.
Conclusion
Shishito peppers are a versatile and flavorful addition to any garden or kitchen. Their manageable size, both in terms of the pepper itself (3-5 inches) and the plant (12-18 inches tall), makes them an excellent choice for gardeners with limited space. Whether you’re growing them yourself or buying them from the store, shishito peppers are a delightful culinary adventure.