Peppers belong to a plant Genus called Capsicum and these group of plants have a great diversity in color, shape and pungency. Christopher Columbus was introduced to members of the pepper family on his very first voyage to the New World. Hot pepper varieties grow well in Texas but there is great diversity in plant varieties and types which will be discussed for Texas gardens. General care and pest problems will also be discussed so gardeners can have the information to select and grow the best pepper varieties for their needs whether very pungent or mild to sweet.