Lesya Red

Lesya Red is a beloved Ukrainian sweet pepper known for its thick, juicy walls and distinctive pointed heart shape. Compact, rugged plants set heavily and ripen cleanly from deep green to a glossy market red, delivering baskets of uniform fruit even in shorter seasons. Growers prize Lesya’s crunch and exceptional sweetness; many sources call it among the sweetest peppers you can grow, with zero heat and a clean, juicy bite. Thick flesh holds up beautifully to roasting and stuffing yet stays tender for raw salads and snacking. The fruits are typically medium-large, with smooth, shiny skins and a tapered “drop” tip that looks striking when sliced lengthwise. Plants stay manageable in beds or containers and benefit from light staking once clusters load up. Under full sun and steady moisture, Lesya produces prolifically and often ripens a concentrated flush, making harvest days especially rewarding. If you want a compact, space-efficient plant that turns heads and excels in the kitchen, Lesya Red is an easy favorite from Eastern Europe.

Days: 75–85 from transplant.
Species: Capsicum annuum
SHU: 0 (sweet).
Heat Level: Sweet
Plant Size: ~18–24 inches; compact, stocky habit (may need light support when loaded).
Pod Size: ~4–5 inches long; ~100–200 g typical; walls ~8–10 mm; pointed heart shape.
Color: Green → deep, glossy red.
Flavor: Very sweet, crisp, and juicy; excellent for stuffing, roasting, and fresh use.
Creator: Traditional Ukrainian selection/heirloom (widely circulated in Eastern Europe).