Banana peppers are a classic garden favorite, loved for their cheerful color, mild heat, and incredible versatility in the kitchen. They get their name from their long, gently curved shape and sunny yellow color that closely resembles a miniature banana. These peppers are easy to grow, highly productive, and a perfect choice for gardeners who want big harvests without overwhelming heat.
Banana peppers have a mild, tangy flavor with just a hint of warmth, making them ideal for fresh eating and preserving. On the Scoville scale, they typically measure 0 to 500 SHU, putting them in the same gentle heat range as Shishito and Pimento peppers—and much milder than Jalapeño peppers. Because of this, they’re perfect for the whole family and for anyone who loves flavor without spice.
The fruits usually grow 2 to 3 inches long, with smooth, thick walls and a slightly curved shape. They start out green and mature to a pale yellow or bright yellow, adding beautiful color to both your garden and your plate. Banana peppers are often confused with their much spicier cousin, the Hungarian Wax pepper, but true Banana peppers are noticeably milder and more tangy.
In the kitchen, Banana peppers truly shine. Their thick, sturdy walls make them excellent for stuffing—an outstanding alternative to Bell or Poblano peppers. They’re also perfect for slicing into salads, piling onto sandwiches, topping pizzas, or, of course, pickling. For a gentler twist on a classic, Banana pepper poppers make a delicious, milder version of Jalapeño poppers. In the Southern United States, deep-fried Banana peppers are a beloved comfort food.
From a growing perspective, Banana peppers are vigorous, reliable, and high-yielding, making them a great choice for beginner and experienced gardeners alike. The plants produce heavily throughout the season, giving you plenty of peppers for fresh eating, cooking, and preserving.
If you’re looking for a beautiful, productive, mild pepper that’s as useful in the kitchen as it is easy in the garden, Banana peppers are an unbeatable choice.
