Black Pearl

Black Pearl is an ornamental Capsicum annuum cultivar developed in the United States by Rob Griesbach and John Stommel at the USDA Agricultural Research Service. It was released in the early 2000s and became widely recognised for its dark foliage and contrasting fruit colour.

The plant produces glossy deep purple to near black leaves when grown in strong light. This dark foliage was a primary breeding goal and distinguishes it from most ornamental peppers.

Fruit are small and round, typically about 1.5 to 2.0 cm in diameter. Immature pods appear black or very dark purple and resemble small polished beads. As they mature, they turn bright red, creating a strong colour contrast against the dark foliage.

Plants are compact and bushy, commonly reaching 36.0 to 46.0 cm in height, though in warm climates they may grow up to approximately 91.0 cm. The growth habit is upright and rounded, making it suitable for containers and ornamental beds.

Heat is generally reported between 10000 and 30000 SHU. A working figure of 30000 SHU reflects the upper end of commonly cited ranges. There are no widely published independent laboratory heat studies specific to this cultivar, and reported values come primarily from horticultural sources.

Black Pearl received the All-America Selections award in 2006 for ornamental performance. Its development focused on visual traits rather than culinary tradition, and it is primarily grown as a decorative plant with edible fruit rather than as a staple food crop.