NuMex R Naky is a mild Anaheim-type pepper developed in 1985 at New Mexico State University by Dr. Roy Nakayama for its vibrant red pigment and very low heat. Primarily used as a paprika cultivar, it offers a sweet, slightly fruity flavor similar to bell peppers and produces high yields in hot, dry conditions. The 5-6 inch pods ripen from green to a rich deep red.
The NuMex R Naky was released in 1985 by Dr. Roy M. Nakayama at New Mexico State University and named after his wife Rose. Its pedigree includes Rio Grande 21, New Mexico 6-4, Bulgarian paprika, and an early maturing native type. It is adapted to southern New Mexico conditions, setting fruit reliably under high temperatures and low humidity. Pods are slightly longer and wider than New Mexico 6-4, measuring approximately 5-6 inches long with smooth skin and thick walls. The cultivar excels in extractable red color with an ASTA rating of 188, significantly higher than New Mexico 6-4's 127. Heat is very low at 250-750 SHU. Plants grow to about 3 feet tall and are highly productive, yielding 30,930 lb/acre compared to 22,783 lb/acre for New Mexico 6-4. Flavor is mild and slightly fruity, akin to bell pepper with a hint of smokiness when roasted or dried. It is versatile for fresh use, roasting, stuffing, or drying into paprika powder, flakes, or for use in sauces and stews.
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Developed in 1985 by Dr. Roy M. Nakayama at New Mexico State University and named after his wife Rose (R. Naky). It was bred to improve upon New Mexico 6-4 with higher red pigment extraction and better yields for the paprika industry in New Mexico.
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Reach out →Mild and slightly fruity flavor similar to a bell pepper, with a sweet profile and light smokiness when dried or roasted.
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