Find the word definition

The Collaborative International Dictionary
Capsicum fastigiatum

Capsicum \Cap"si*cum\ (k[a^]p"s[i^]*k[u^]m), n. [NL., fr. L. capsa box, chest.] (Bot.) A genus of plants of many species, producing capsules or dry berries of various forms, which have an exceedingly pungent, biting taste, and when ground form the red or Cayenne pepper of commerce.

Note: The most important species are Capsicum baccatum or bird pepper, Capsicum fastigiatum or chili pepper, Capsicum frutescens or spur pepper, and Capsicum annuum or Guinea pepper, which includes the bell pepper and other common garden varieties. The fruit is much used, both in its green and ripe state, in pickles and in cookery. See Cayenne pepper.