Variety
Lipstick
A compact pimento-style pepper — brilliant red, sweet, and excellent for outdoor growing
Lipstick is a compact, pimento-style sweet pepper that matures earlier than most varieties and performs better than most in UK outdoor conditions in a warm, sheltered spot. The fruit is short, round-shouldered, and matures to a vivid scarlet red. One of the most reliable choices for gardeners who don't have a greenhouse but want to grow sweet peppers successfully.
Flavour
Sweet and slightly fruity with a pimento-like quality — richer and denser than a block bell pepper but without the complex herbal notes of Italian varieties. Very approachable flavour. The skin is slightly thicker than pointed varieties, giving a satisfying texture when eaten raw.
In the kitchen
Versatile — good raw, roasted, or grilled. The compact size and thick flesh makes it particularly good for roasting whole or cutting into strips for a fajita or stir-fry. Excellent pickled in a light brine with garlic and herbs for a year-round condiment.
Growing
One of the few sweet peppers that can perform outdoors in the UK in a warm, south-facing sheltered position. Still benefits from a polytunnel or cloche in cooler regions. Earlier maturing than most varieties — expect ripe fruit from late July under glass. A good choice for beginners due to its reliability and forgiving nature.