While typically bright yellow, it is possible for them to change to green, red, or orange as they ripen. The plant requires full sun, like other Capsicum annuum varieties, and should be treated the same banana peppers most other plants in the pepper family.

Plants can be grown from seed and cuttings. A mature plant will reach 1 to 2 feet tall and can be grown in many climates, but prefers warmer climates. Cultivars include Early Sweet Banana, Hungarian Yellow Wax, Long Sweet Yellow, Sweet Banana, and Sweet Hungarian. Percentages are roughly approximated using US recommendations for adults. Pickled banana peppers are commonly sold sliced and used to garnish pizzas, sandwiches and Greek salads.

Stuffed banana peppers are served warm with a variety of Italian sausage and cheeses. Chopped or diced banana peppers are used in many relishes and salsas to add sweetness with other peppers providing heat. Banana peppers may be jellied along with other hot green peppers such as jalapeños. Mirchi Bhaji — Chilli bajji is a tasty, crispy, and spicy snack, made with banana peppers, gram flour, rice flour, chilli powder, and deep-fried in oil.