Piper auritum
Mexican Pepper-Leaf
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Mexican Pepper-Leaf (Piper auritum) - Description
Hoja santa (Piper auritum) is an aromatic herb with a heart-shaped, velvety leaf which grows in tropic Mesoamerica. The name hoja santa means "sacred leaf" in Spanish. It is also known as yerba santa, hierba santa, Mexican pepperleaf, acuyo, tlanepa,anisillo, root beer plant, and sacred pepper.
Mexican Pepper-Leaf (Piper auritum) - Blooming
Blooms petalless and sepalless flowers followed by fruit, each with a single seed.
Mexican Pepper-Leaf (Piper auritum) - Growth
Shrubs, climbers, and small trees, occuring in tropical areas. Grows best in partial shade, or bright filtered light, with high humidity. P. nigrum, in temperate areas, should be raised in a warm greenhouse or conservatory, where it may produce fruit. A warm greenhouse has a minimum temperature of 55°F (13°C). During the day, temperatures should be set to 55-64°F (13-18°C) or above, and at night, the temperature should be at 55°F (13°C). Can only grow plants outdoors in tropical areas.
Mexican Pepper-Leaf (Piper auritum) - Planting
Propagate from the seed in early spring. Sow at 66-75°F (20-24°C). Propagate from semi-ripe cuttings in summer. Semi-ripe cuttings are cuttings taken from semi-mature wood.
Mexican Pepper-Leaf (Piper auritum) - Pest
Vulnerable to pepper weevil, pepper flea beetle, and fungal root rot.
Mexican Pepper-Leaf (Piper auritum) - Interesting facts
Found worldwide in tropical habitats. Many are grown as spice crops, such as P. nigrum. Some have a pungent aroma.
Mexican Pepper-Leaf (Piper auritum) - Soil and irrigation
Grows best in soil that is fertile and well-draining. Soil-based potting mixes with added sharp sand work well for indoor plants.
