Whole Shishito Sweet Peppers next to teal plate with roasted peppers on a white background.
Fresh Shishito Sweet Pepper with grilled peppers on a plate, and Japanese decorations on a dark background.
Five Shishito Sweet Peppers, three red two green, on a wood background.
Looking from above, fresh and grilled Shishito Sweet Peppers next to a knife on a wood background
Whole Shishito Sweet Peppers next to teal plate with roasted peppers on a white background.
Fresh Shishito Sweet Pepper with grilled peppers on a plate, and Japanese decorations on a dark background.
Five Shishito Sweet Peppers, three red two green, on a wood background.
Looking from above, fresh and grilled Shishito Sweet Peppers next to a knife on a wood background

Sweet Pepper Seeds,
Shishito

4.682 ReviewsSKU: #PP144
Price
Regular price $3.50
Regular price $0.00 Sale price $3.50
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Min. 25 seeds

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Description

(Capsicum annuum). 50 days (green) or 80 days (red). A favorite old Japanese variety which produces 3-inch-long, slightly wrinkled fruit that is perfect for making tempura and other traditional recipes. Fruit is emerald green in color, ripening to red, and mildly flavored with just a bit of spice. It really is superb and is the standard with many chefs.

Growing Tips: Shishito peppers thrive in warm, well-drained soil with full sun. Use mulch to retain moisture and reduce weed growth. Regular harvesting boosts production. These compact plants are suited for raised beds or patio containers and can produce dozens of flavorful pods per plant throughout the season. Peppers often appreciate a bit of afternoon shade during the hottest summer weather.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Capsicum annuum
Life Cycle
Perennial in frost free zones; grown as an annual elsewhere.
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–14
Days to Maturity
60–75
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
18–24 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–85°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant outdoors after the last frost and when nighttime temperatures remain above 60°F. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in a quality seed-starting mix. Maintain a temperature of 75–85°F for optimal germination. Once seedlings develop true leaves, transplant them into larger pots, then harden off before moving them outdoors.

How to Grow

Plant in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Space 12–18 inches apart. Water consistently, especially during fruit set, and fertilize monthly. Harvest green for peak flavor and tenderness. Plants will continue producing if picked regularly.

How to Save Seeds

  • Choose fully ripe, red fruits from healthy, true-to-type plants.
  • Cut open the pepper and remove seeds.
  • Spread seeds on a screen or paper towel in a warm, dry place out of direct sunlight.
  • Stir daily to ensure even drying.
  • Once completely dry, store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
  • Label with variety and year. Seeds remain viable for up to 3-5 years.

FAQ

Why are some Shishito peppers spicy?

Most Shishito peppers are mild, but about one in ten may contain a burst of heat. This natural variability is part of their appeal and makes eating them a fun surprise.

Can I grow Shishito peppers in pots?

Yes, Shishitos are perfect for containers. Choose a 3- to 5-gallon pot, provide full sun, water consistently, and fertilize monthly for a productive, patio-friendly harvest.

How often should I harvest Shishito peppers?

Harvest every few days once fruits are about 3–4 inches long and glossy green. Frequent picking encourages more blooms and a longer harvest window throughout the summer.

Browse our full range of sweet pepper seeds.

Customer reviews

4.6 / 5 82 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Insanely prolific: One or two plants keep a household in peppers all summer.

  • Blistered and salted: Pan-fried or grilled with oil and salt in minutes.

  • Thrives in heat: Keeps setting fruit through 100-degree summers.

  • Compact plants: Short, bushy plants; keep taller peppers from shading them.

  • Heads up: Mostly mild, with the occasional surprise hot one.

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