Pepper - Thai Dragon

 
 

Common Name: Thai Dragon Pepper

Latin Name: Capsicum annuum 'Thai Dragon'

Brief Description: Thai Dragon Pepper is a vibrant and potent variety known for its fiery heat and bold flavour. This pepper plant produces small, slender peppers that ripen from green to a brilliant red, offering both a visual treat and a culinary challenge. The peppers are incredibly spicy, making them a favourite for those who love to add a serious kick to their dishes.

How to Plant: Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Plant your Thai Dragon Pepper plants at the same depth they were in their containers, spacing them about 18-24 inches apart to allow for their full growth and ease of harvest.

General Plant Care: Thai Dragon Peppers require consistent moisture, especially as the fruits develop. Mulch around the plants to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Lighting Requirements: Requires full sun, with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily, to produce the most robust peppers.

Water Requirements: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Reduce watering slightly as the peppers begin to ripen to intensify their heat.

Organic Feeding Suggestions: Feed with a balanced organic fertilizer that is high in potassium and phosphorus to support fruit development. A calcium supplement can also be beneficial to prevent blossom end rot.

Tips, Hints or Tricks for a Successful Plant: Regularly check for pests such as aphids and spider mites. Use organic pest control methods if necessary. Harvesting the peppers frequently encourages the plant to produce more.

Recipe or Use Suggestions: Thai Dragon Peppers are perfect for adding heat to sauces, stir-fries, and marinades. They can be used fresh, dried, or pickled. Due to their intense heat, they should be used sparingly to adjust the spice level to your preference.

Folklore: In many cultures, hot peppers like the Thai Dragon are believed to ward off evil spirits and negativity due to their fiery nature.

Spiritual Significance: These peppers are often used in rituals to promote courage and to clear out negative energy.

Wellness Benefits:

  • Metabolic Boost: Known for its ability to help boost metabolism due to the capsaicin content.

  • Pain Relief: Capsaicin in the peppers also acts as a natural pain reliever when applied topically.

  • Antioxidant Properties: Provides antioxidants that help combat free radical damage and support overall health.