Banana Pepper
250 SHU · Capsicum annuum
SweetHeat range
0 to 500 SHU. Typical: 250 SHU.
Individual peppers vary within this range based on growing conditions, ripeness, and genetic variation. See the Scoville scale guide for why the range matters.
Flavor and character
Banana Pepper has flavors of tangy, mild sweetness, slightly peppery, crisp.
The banana pepper gets its name from its long, curved, yellow shape that resembles a banana. It is one of the mildest peppers available, often registering at or near zero SHU, with occasional specimens reaching 500 SHU — barely noticeable heat. The flavor is tangy and mildly sweet, which is why banana peppers are almost always pickled or used fresh in salads and sandwiches. They are a staple pizza topping in the American Midwest and South. Often confused with pepperoncini, which are slightly hotter and have a different texture. Banana peppers are extremely productive garden plants and one of the easiest peppers to grow.
How it’s used
Banana Pepper is commonly used in pizza topping, sandwich rings, pickling, salads, stuffed appetizers.
What to use instead
These substitutions match heat, not flavor. Flavor character changes substantially between peppers. For custom quantities, use the substitution calculator.
Compare with another pepper
Other peppers to explore
Frequently asked questions
How hot is Banana Pepper compared to a jalapeño?
Banana Pepper and jalapeños are in a similar heat range. Banana Pepper at 250 SHU is roughly comparable to a jalapeño at 5,000 SHU.
What does Banana Pepper taste like?
Banana Pepper has flavors of tangy, mild sweetness, slightly peppery, crisp. Beyond the heat, these flavor notes distinguish it from other peppers at similar Scoville ratings.
Can I grow Banana Pepper at home?
Yes. Banana Pepper grows well in USDA zones 7+ and can be grown in containers in cooler zones. Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost. Full sun, moderate water, and well-drained soil produce the best results.
Is Banana Pepper hotter than Pepperoncini?
No. Pepperoncini at 300 SHU typical is hotter than Banana Pepper at 250 SHU. Compare them side by side on the comparison tool.
What's a good substitute for Banana Pepper?
The closest substitutes are Bell Pepper and Poblano. These share similar heat ranges and compatible flavor profiles. For exact quantity ratios, use the substitution calculator.
What is Banana Pepper's Scoville rating?
Banana Pepper ranges from 0 to 500 SHU, with a typical measurement of 250 SHU. This range reflects natural variation in capsaicin production due to growing conditions, ripeness, and genetics.