Description
Piper nudum (also called Naked Pepper, among many other common names) is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 meters tall. It is native to Central and South America and is found in wet mountain forests and disturbed areas.
Uses & Benefits
Piper nudum is used as a food flavoring, as a dye, and in traditional medicine for treating various ailments. It is also used as an insect repellent and for making perfumes.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Piper nudum is a small, white, fragrant flower. The seed is a small, black, oval-shaped seed. The seedlings are small, green, and have a single leaf.
Cultivation and Propagation
Piper nudum is a perennial herb that can be propagated from seed or cuttings. It prefers a moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It can be grown in containers or in the garden. When growing from seed, sow the seeds in early spring in a warm, sunny location. When growing from cuttings, take cuttings in late spring or early summer and root them in a moist, well-drained soil. Once established, the plant is drought tolerant and does not require much maintenance.