CaHAM is autoregulated and regulates CaSTM expression and is required for shoot apical meristem organization in pepper

► The pepper HAM homolog was isolated and characterized. ► CaHAM mutant exhibits an arrested SAM and inhibition of axillary meristem formation. ► CaHAM is negatively autoregulated and negatively regulates the expression of CaSTM. ► CaHAM has a conserved role in controlling SAM maintenance and organization.