Piper, commonly called "Pepper Vine,” is a genus of shrubs, herbs, and vines that has a huge collection of species as part of the family.


Light: Variable depending on species; generally part sun


Water: Variable depending on species  


Environment: Mostly found in tropical forests but some varieties can be found in higher elevations 


Toxicity: Not available


Habit / Size: Variable depending on species


Of Note:

  • A close relative of Piper is the genus Peperomia being from the same family of Piperaceae
  • Piper is derived from the Sanskrit term pippali meaning “long pepper”
  • Not all Piper plants in the genus produce peppercorns; piper nigrum is the member that produces black peppercorns
  • Piper crocatum is a colorful climbing vine species that requires slight dry to the touch in regards to watering and bright filtered ambient light in the middle of the day with a pinch of direct sunlight at low intensity times

 

*When planting in a pot without a drainage hole, help avoid over watering by estimating 25% of the container’s overall volume, with appropriate drainage materials incorporated when planting.