California Wonder is one of the most popular and dependable sweet bell pepper varieties. It produces thick-walled, blocky fruits that ripen from green to bright red, with a crisp texture and classic sweet flavor. Excellent for fresh eating, stuffing, roasting, or freezing.

Quick Facts

• Botanical name: Capsicum annuum

• Common name: California Wonder Bell Pepper

• Plant type: Warm-season annual vegetable

• Days to maturity: 70–75 days from transplant

• Fruit size: 4–5 inches long, blocky shape

• Sun exposure: Full sun

• Hardiness zones: USDA 3–11 (grown as annual)

• Spacing: 18–24 inches apart

When to Plant

• Indoors: Start seeds 8–10 weeks before the last frost date.

• Outdoors: Transplant when nighttime temperatures are consistently above 55°F (13°C).

• Germination time: 7–14 days at 75–85°F (24–29°C)

How to Plant

1. Soil preparation: Well-drained, fertile soil with compost or aged manure. Ideal pH: 6.2–7.0.

2. Sowing depth: 1/4 inch deep.

3. Transplanting: Harden off seedlings and space 18–24 inches apart.

4. Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy; avoid overhead watering.

5. Fertilizing: Start with balanced fertilizer; switch to low-nitrogen once flowering begins.

Growing Tips

• Mulch to retain moisture and reduce weeds.

• Stake or cage plants to support heavy fruiting.

• Harvest green or wait until peppers fully ripen to red for the sweetest flavor.

• Remove early flowers for stronger early plant development.

Harvesting

• Harvest when fruits are firm, glossy, and reach full size.

• Use scissors or garden shears to prevent stem breakage.

• Red peppers contain more vitamin C and are sweeter than green.

Culinary Use

• Excellent for fresh eating, salads, stuffed peppers, grilling, sautéing, and freezing.

• Sweet, crisp, and versatile — a kitchen essential.

• Great for slicing, dicing, roasting, or preserving.

Companion Plants

Pairs well with onions, carrots, basil, spinach, and marjoram.
Avoid planting near fennel and beans, which may compete or inhibit growth.

Why Grow California Wonder Peppers?

California Wonder is a time-tested classic — reliable, sweet, and easy to grow. Whether picked green or red, this bell pepper delivers abundant yields, rich flavor, and top performance in gardens and containers alike.