Abstract: Pepper（Capsicum spp.），originating in Central and South America，was introduced into China in the 16th century. Here discussed the spreading path of pepper across the world and provide evidence supporting its spreading route in China. After introduced into China through Zhejiang Province，C. annuum L. was first brought to North China，then to Liaoning and Hunan，and from Hunan rapidly spread to Southwest China，Northwest China and the surrounding regions，forming the spicy area in the upper and middle reaches of Yangtze River，the mild spicy area in North China，Northeast China and Northwest China，and slightly spicy area in the coastal region of East and South China. C. frutescens L. and C. chinense Jacq. was first introduced into China through Taiwan，then from Taiwan to Hainan and Yunnan. The motivation underlying the pepper spread in China was discussed，and its spread and cultivation history in China during the past 400 years was reviewed. Described how pepper has evolved from an ornamental crop，to a condiment crop，and now a major vegetable crop，and discussed the industrial function，value and scale of pepper in China as well as its industry position，advantage and prospect.