Description
Piper swartzianum (also called White Pepper, among many other common names) is a small, perennial, evergreen shrub native to tropical regions of Central and South America. It has thick, glossy, heart-shaped leaves and small, white flowers. It is found growing in moist, shady areas such as rainforests and cloud forests.
Uses & Benefits
Piper swartzianum is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a houseplant. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat fever, headaches, and stomach ailments.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Piper swartzianum has small, white flowers that are borne in clusters. The seeds are small and black, and the seedlings are small and green.
Cultivation and Propagation
Piper swartzianum is a tropical plant that is easy to cultivate and propagate. It prefers bright, indirect light and moist, well-drained soil. It can be propagated by stem cuttings or division of the rhizomes. It is best to take cuttings in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.