Black Namaqualand Chili Plant (Capsicum annuum) 2L Pot

Black Namaqualand is a compact chilli variety grown for its dark foliage, purple flowers and small edible fruit.

The leaves and stems develop dark purple to almost black colouring when grown in strong light. Small upright peppers begin dark purple or black before ripening to deep red.

The plant combines ornamental foliage with hot fruit that can be used fresh or dried for chilli flakes and powder.

Its compact habit makes Black Namaqualand suitable for containers, patios, sunny windowsills and greenhouse growing.

Plant Details

Botanical name: Capsicum annuum
Common name: Black Namaqualand Chilli
Plant family: Solanaceae
Habit: Compact, bushy annual or short-lived tender perennial
Potential height: Approximately 40–60 cm under suitable conditions
Foliage: Dark purple to almost black in strong light
Flowers: Purple flowers
Fruit: Small dark peppers ripening to deep red
Heat level: Hot, although strength can vary
Position: Full sun
Suitable for: Greenhouses, patios, windowsills and containers
Hardiness: Tender and not frost hardy

Growing Advice

Grow your Black Namaqualand in fertile, well-draining compost in a warm and sunny position. Strong light encourages the darkest foliage and fruit colouring.

The plant can remain in a relatively compact container but will benefit from being moved into a larger pot if increased growth and fruit production are required.

Keep the compost evenly moist during active growth, but avoid waterlogging. Water requirements will increase during hot weather and while the plant is carrying fruit.

Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser during early growth. Change to a high-potassium tomato feed once flowers or young fruit appear.

Plants grown outdoors should only be moved outside after the risk of frost has passed. Choose a bright, sheltered position.

Black Namaqualand is usually grown as an annual but may sometimes be overwintered in a bright, frost-free position.

Fruiting in the UK

Black Namaqualand can flower and fruit successfully in the UK when provided with warmth and strong light. Greenhouse cultivation generally produces the most reliable crop and strongest foliage colour.

Fruit can be harvested when dark or allowed to ripen fully to red. Fully mature fruit is generally better suited to drying.

What You Will Receive

You will receive one healthy Black Namaqualand Chilli plant growing in a 2-litre pot. Plants are typically dispatched at approximately 20–30 cm tall.

Young plants may not yet display the dark foliage, flowers or fruit seen on mature specimens. Colouring will strengthen under suitable light.

Important Information

The fruit is hot. Wear gloves when harvesting, cutting or preparing chillies.

Avoid touching your eyes or face and wash your hands thoroughly after handling. Keep fruit away from children and pets.