What is a hawk claw pepper? Hawk claw chili peppers, known as Takanotsume chili peppers in Japan, are claw-shaped, intensely hot, bright red peppers. Hawk claw peppers were introduced to Japan by the Portuguese in the 1800s. Looking for more Takanotsume pepper information? Read on and we’ll provide information about growing hawk claw chili peppers in your garden.
Takanotsume Pepper Info
When these chili peppers are young and green, they are often used for cooking. The ripe, red peppers are generally dried and used to spice up a variety of dishes. Hawk claw chili peppers grow on bushy plants that reach heights of about 24 inches (61 cm.). The plant is attractive and its compact growth is well suited for containers.
How to Grow Hawk Claw Chili Peppers
Plant seeds indoors in January or February, or start with small plants from a greenhouse or nursery. You can then plant the chili peppers outdoors after all danger of frost has passed in spring. If you’re short on space, you can grow them in a sunny indoor location.
A 5-gallon (19 L.) pot works well for Takanotsume chili peppers. Fill the container with a good quality potting mix. Outdoors, Hawk Claw peppers need well-drained soil and at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Pinch the growing tips of young plants when they’re about 6 inches tall (15 cm.) to produce fuller, bushier plants. Remove early blooms from small plants, as these draw energy from the plant.
Water regularly, but don’t overdo, as overwatering invites mildew, rot and other diseases. As a general rule, chili peppers perform best when the soil is slightly on the dry side, but never bone dry. A thick layer of mulch will suppress weeds and conserve moisture.
Feed Hawk Claw chili peppers weekly once fruit has set, using a fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 5-10-10. Tomato fertilizer also works well for chili peppers.
Harvest Takanotsume chili peppers before the first frost in autumn. If necessary, harvest the peppers and let them ripen indoors, in a warm, sunny spot.