Golden California Wonder is a beautiful, blocky bell pepper that ripens from green to a rich golden-yellow. Known for its thick walls, sweet flavor, and crisp texture, it’s perfect for fresh eating, stuffing, sautéing, and roasting.

Quick Facts

• Botanical name: Capsicum annuum

• Common name: Golden 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.

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

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

How to Plant

1. Soil preparation: Fertile, well-drained soil rich in compost. Ideal pH: 6.2–7.0.

2. Sowing depth: 1/4 inch deep.

3. Transplanting: Harden off seedlings before transplanting into garden or containers.

4. Watering: Keep soil evenly moist; avoid overwatering and wet foliage.

5. Fertilizing: Use balanced fertilizer at planting, then switch to low-nitrogen once fruit sets.

Growing Tips

• Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

• Stake or cage to support heavy fruit production.

• Pick early as green peppers or let ripen to golden-yellow for full sweetness.

• Remove first few flowers to promote stronger early root growth.

Harvesting

• Harvest when fruit reaches full size and begins to turn golden.

• For sweetest flavor, allow fruit to ripen fully on the plant.

• Use scissors or pruners to avoid breaking stems.

Culinary Use

• Thick-walled and juicy — perfect for fresh eating, stuffing, grilling, roasting, and stir-fries.

• Adds sweetness and color to salads, fajitas, or vegetable platters.

• High in vitamin C and antioxidants.

Companion Plants

Grows well with carrots, basil, onions, spinach, and marjoram.
Avoid planting near fennel or beans.

Why Grow Golden California Wonder Peppers?

This classic sweet bell pepper offers reliability, beauty, and delicious golden fruits with excellent flavor. Whether grown in garden beds or large containers, it’s a top choice for home gardeners who want productive, colorful plants all season long.