Piper aduncum
Highlight Month:June
Nativity:
South America
Growth Habit:This peppercorn relative forms a large shrub/small tree. In summer the white “rat tail” inflorescences are eyecatching.
Growing Requirements:While native to the tropics and subtropics, this evergreen shrub is quite drought tolerant. It thrives in full to partial sun.
Features:There are many indigenous names for this plant, but “matico” is widely used in South America where it is used medicinally as a styptic or anti-hemorrhagic remedy.
Where at Lotusland:At the edge of the cycad garden nearest the tropical garden.
« Back to Plant Highlights, Month by Month