Bell peppers belong to the nightshade (Solanaceae) family of plants, along with chili pepper,Bell peppers can be eaten at any stage of development.

However, recent research has shown that the vitamin C and carotenoid content of bell peppers tends to increase while the pepper is reaching its optimal ripeness. Bell peppers are also typically more flavorful when optimally ripe.

Bell peppers have been cultivated for more than 9000 years, with the earliest cultivation having taken place in South and Central America.