Helpeppar

Helpeppar is a cultivar of Capsicum annuum distinguished by its culinary versatility and its proposed role in sustainable growing systems. The name combines “help” and “pepper” to reflect its intended functions as both a food crop and a provider of ecosystem services in diversified plots, such as attracting pollinators and beneficial insects. It is commonly described as a warm-season pepper with modest heat and bright aroma.

Origin and distribution: Developed in a European urban farming program in the 2010s, helpeppar has since been grown in home gardens and small farms across temperate regions. It is often marketed as a practical, ornamental-culinary variety.

Description: Plants are compact to medium-sized, usually 60–90 cm tall. Fruits are small to medium and conical, 3–4 cm long, maturing from green to yellow, orange, and red. Heat ranges roughly from 5,000 to 25,000 Scoville heat units. The flavor is fruity with a noticeable aroma, useful fresh, in salsas, and in cooked dishes.

Cultivation and uses: Prefers full sun, well-drained soil, and a long warm season. Start indoors, transplant after frost, spacing 45–50 cm. Water evenly; mulch and stake as needed. Ecological notes: Many growers report that helpeppar supports pollinators and can contribute to pest management in polycultures, though results vary by climate. Culinary use: salads, sauces, pickling.

See also: Capsicum annuum, list of pepper cultivars.