Capsicum is the name of a group of small, shrubby plants often grown for their fruit. They have long, pointed leaves and bear wheel-shaped flowers that have five petals. The fruit develops from the plant’s flowers. The fruits of capsicum plants, as well as the plants themselves, are sometimes called peppers. A few dozen species (kinds) of capsicum plants exist, but most species are not cultivated. Such common spices as cayenne pepper and paprika are made from the dried fruits of capsicum plants. A few types of capsicum fruits are used in various forms to treat such ailments as neuralgia, rheumatism, and sore throat.
