NuMex R Naky

Dr. Nakayama released NuMex R Naky in 1985 and named it after his wife, Rose (Nakayama & Matta, 1985). Its pedigree includes Rio Grande 21, New Mexico 6-4, Bulgarian paprika, and an early-maturing native type. It sets fruit under high temperatures and low humidity. Its yield in Las Cruces is 30,930 lbs/acre, significantly higher than New Mexico 6-4 (22,783 lbs/acre). When red color was measured using the American Spice Trade Association (ASTA) method, it had a color rating of 188 ASTA, which was better than New Mexico 6-4 (127 ASTA). The heat level was 260 to 760 SHU, making it a very mild cultivar. The pod is slightly longer and wider than New Mexico 6-4. NuMex R Naky is used as a paprika cultivar in New Mexico because of its low heat level. (Paprika is defined in the United States as red pepper powder with undetectable or low heat.)