Type
sweet bell, heirloom
Pepper variety
California Wonder Pepper
A classic bell pepper with blocky green fruit that ripens red. Plants are dependable and widely adapted for home gardens.
Days to maturity
70 to 75
Best for
fresh eating, stuffing
About California Wonder
California Wonder is a classic open-pollinated bell pepper popularized in the late 1920s, prized for its blocky, three to four lobed fruit with thick, sweet walls. The fruit ripens from glossy green to bright red on compact, upright plants, making it a dependable garden standard. Its thick flesh and roomy shape make it a traditional choice for stuffing.
Growing California Wonder Pepper
Space plants about 18 to 24 inches apart in full sun and warm, well drained soil, and set them out only after all danger of frost has passed. As a full-season type it needs consistent warmth to size up, so it does best where summers are long and hot. Pick fruit green for firm walls, or leave it on the plant to turn red and grow sweeter.
Full growing guide
For planting dates, care, and harvest that apply to all peppers, see the complete guide.
How to grow PeppersOther peppers varieties
Variety characteristics are general guidance for US home gardens; performance varies by climate, soil, and season. Seed and plant availability differs by supplier. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.