USES AND IMPORTANCE OF CAPSICUM ANNUUM VAR. ANNUUM

published on 22/06/2024 Capsicum annuum var. annuum is the most economically significant member of the Capsicum genus. This variety of chili pepper, commonly found in international cuisine, is celebrated for its diverse flavor profiles, aromatic qualities, and varying levels of spiciness. Beyond its culinary applications, Capsicum annuum var. annuum also finds uses in ornamental horticulture and has been recognized for its medicinal properties. This article explores the various uses of this versatile plant, highlighting its importance in different fields.

Culinary uses
Capsicum annuum var. annuum is a staple in kitchens around the world. Its fruits are used in a myriad of dishes, ranging from spicy salsas and sauces to milder pepper-based recipes. The peppers come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, each offering unique flavors and heat levels. Some popular culinary varieties include bell peppers, jalapeños, and cayenne peppers. These peppers can be consumed fresh, dried, or powdered, making them a versatile ingredient in both traditional and modern cuisines.

Ornamental uses
Certain cultivars of Capsicum annuum var. annuum are prized for their ornamental value. These varieties, such as the Christmas peppers and Bolivian rainbow, are grown for their vibrant foliage and colorful, upright fruits. These ornamental peppers add a festive touch to gardens and homes, often being used in decorative arrangements and as potted plants. Their bright colors and unique shapes make them a popular choice among garden enthusiasts.

Medicinal uses
Although less commonly documented in herbarium records, Capsicum annuum var. annuum has notable medicinal and nutritional benefits. The active compounds in these peppers, such as capsaicin, have been extensively studied for their pharmacological properties and therapeutic effects. Research indicates that these compounds can aid in pain relief, weight management, and cardiovascular health. Studies have highlighted their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities, making these peppers valuable in natural medicine.

Genetic diversity and domestication
Capsicum annuum var. annuum belongs to the Annuum clade, which includes other domesticated species like C. chinense, C. frutescens, and C. galapagoense. These species and their wild counterparts form the primary gene pool of Capsicum annuum. The domestication of this variety is believed to have started in central-east Mexico over 6,500 years ago, leading to a wide range of landraces, varietals, and hybrids that we see today. This long history of cultivation has resulted in significant genetic diversity, making C. annuum var. annuum one of the most studied species in terms of its domestication and genetics.

Fortunately, Capsicum annuum var. annuum is not currently under threat. Its widespread cultivation and popularity in both agriculture and horticulture ensure its continued survival. However, ongoing research and conservation efforts are essential to maintain its genetic diversity and to protect it from potential future threats.

Capsicum annuum var. annuum is a multifaceted plant with a rich history and a broad range of applications. From spicing up dishes worldwide to brightening gardens with its ornamental varieties, and contributing to health and medicine, this chili pepper variety plays a vital role in various aspects of human life. Continued research and conservation will help preserve its legacy and unlock new potentials for its use in the future.


 

Capsicum annuum var. annuum

A flower bud on pendent pedicel B flower with connivent anthers C flower with hexamerous corolla (note nectar droplets on the limb) and style near the same length as the anthers D flower with heptamerous purple corolla E flower with pentamerous corolla and style ex- ceeding the anthers F, H mature fruits on pendent pedicels G mature fruits on upright pedicels A–H no specimen vouchers, photos by G.E. Barboza and C. Carrizo García taken at different greenhouses.
 

Capsicum annuum var. glabriusculum

A apex of a reproductive branch B flower bud on geniculate pedicel C–F flowers in anthesis showing variations in corolla, stamens and style colouration G immature fruit H mature and immature fruits A, B, D, F from Barboza et al. 5049, photos by G.E. Barboza C, E, H Carrizo García 102, photos by C. Carrizo García G Leiva González et al. 2105, photo by S. Leiva González.
 

References for further reading:

Barboza GE, Carrizo García C, de Bem Bianchetti L, Romero MV, Scaldaferro M (2022) Monograph of wild and cultivated chili peppers (Capsicum L., Solanaceae). PhytoKeys 200: 1–423. https://doi.org/10.3897/ phytokeys.200.71667