Hot pepper 'Thunder Mountain Longhorn'
Produces abundant exceptionally long fruits that are easy to dry and process while offering moderate heat and excellent aromatic quality. Its spectacular appearance immediately attracts attention in the garden.
identification
description
Thunder Mountain Longhorn Hot Pepper (Capsicum annuum) is a unique and spectacular Chinese variety originating from the Guizhou region in the Leigongshan Mountains, also known as the Thunder Mountains. Its exceptionally long, slender, slightly twisted fruits can exceed 30 cm (12 in), creating a dramatic display in the vegetable garden, in containers, or when hung to dry after harvest. The compact yet highly productive plant can reach up to 1.2 m (4 ft) in height and produces abundant peppers throughout the season. With moderate heat of about 20,000 SHU, it offers an aromatic flavor that is milder than Cayenne.
Thunder Mountain Longhorn Hot Pepper grows best in full sun, in rich, fertile, well-drained soil, with moderate, regular watering to support continuous production. Start seeds indoors in early March, about 8 to 10 weeks before the last expected frost, at an optimal temperature of 22 to 28°C (72 to 82°F). Germination usually takes 7 to 14 days. Once plants have 4 to 6 true leaves, transplant them into larger pots before gradually hardening them off outdoors. After the last frost, grow plants in the ground or in 10 to 15 L (2.5 to 4 gal) containers, applying a balanced fertilizer every 2 to 3 weeks throughout the growing season.
In the garden, this pepper is ideal for small gardens, patios, productive vegetable gardens, and decorative edible landscapes where a long-fruited, prolific, easy-to-use variety is desired. It grows well alongside tomatoes, basil, and onions, while benefiting from being kept away from fennel and beets. Its flowers may attract pollinators, while its bright red mature fruits are excellent in Asian dishes, marinades, sauces, and homemade chili powders. When dried and smoked, they develop a woody flavor reminiscent of chipotle. Wash hands after handling to avoid irritation from capsaicin.
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