Description
Piper heterophyllum (also called Long Pepper, among many other common names) is a species of flowering plant in the family Piperaceae. It is a perennial, dioecious, climbing shrub that grows up to 4 m tall. It is native to India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia, and is found in tropical and subtropical forests. It is also cultivated for its fruits, which are used as a spice.
Uses & Benefits
Piper heterophyllum 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 heterophyllum is white or yellowish, with a tubular corolla. The seed is a small, dark brown, oblong nutlet. The seedlings are usually green with a single seed leaf.
Where to Find Piper heterophyllum
Piper heterophyllum is native to Central and South America, and can be found in tropical and subtropical regions, including Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Brazil.