Takanotsume (Capsicum annuum) 2L Pot
Takanotsume is a traditional Japanese chilli variety grown for its small, upward-pointing red fruit.
The name Takanotsume translates as “hawk’s claw” and refers to the shape of the slender, curved peppers. The fruit begins green before ripening to red.
Takanotsume peppers have medium-hot to hot heat and relatively thin walls, allowing them to dry readily after harvesting. They are used in Japanese cooking as whole dried chillies, flakes and powdered seasoning.
In the UK, Takanotsume grows best in a greenhouse, polytunnel or warm and sheltered patio position.
Plant Details
Botanical name: Capsicum annuum ‘Takanotsume’
Common names: Takanotsume, Hawk’s Claw Chilli
Plant family: Solanaceae
Habit: Compact, upright annual or short-lived tender perennial
Potential height: Approximately 45–75 cm under suitable conditions
Foliage: Green, pointed leaves
Flowers: Small white flowers
Fruit: Slender, often curved peppers held upright on the plant
Mature fruit colour: Red
Heat level: Medium-hot to hot
Position: Full sun
Suitable for: Greenhouses, polytunnels, patios and containers
Hardiness: Tender and not frost hardy
Growing Advice
Grow your Takanotsume in fertile, well-draining compost in a warm and sunny position. Move the plant into a larger container if required for continued growth and fruit production.
Keep the compost evenly moist during active growth, but avoid prolonged waterlogging.
Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser during early growth. Change to a high-potassium tomato feed once flowers or young peppers appear.
Picking ripe peppers regularly can encourage the plant to continue flowering.
Plants grown outside should only be placed outdoors once the risk of frost has passed. Choose a position protected from cool winds.
Takanotsume is normally grown as an annual in the UK but may sometimes be overwintered in a bright, frost-free position.
Fruiting in the UK
Takanotsume can fruit successfully in the UK when provided with sufficient warmth and light.
The peppers can be used fresh but are particularly suited to drying. Allow fruit to reach its mature red colour before harvesting for dried seasoning.
What You Will Receive
You will receive one Takanotsume Chilli plant growing in a 2-litre pot. Plants are typically dispatched at approximately 20–30 cm tall.
Plants may be supplied before flowering or fruiting. Fruit position and shape will vary naturally.
Important Information
Takanotsume peppers are hot.
Wear gloves when harvesting, cutting or preparing the peppers. Avoid touching your eyes or face and wash your hands thoroughly after handling.