Piper excelsum subsp. psittacorum

Fleshy evergreen shrub with jointed green stems growing up to 2m tall and 1m wide.

Long narrow green flower spikes are seen on plants from August to November. Orange fruit then develop throughout the year. Leaves are heart-shaped bright green and glossy.

Prefers partial shade with free-draining moist soil. Once established it will tolerate considerable drought. Piper is cold sensitive.

Always choose healthy well grown plants and plant after autumn rains as the soil is moist and warm and allows plants to become established before winter. This enables them to withstand dry periods during the following summer. Young plants may require thorough watering during dry periods over the first two or three years. Mulching helps to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Planting success is often improved on clay soils by adding extra topsoil and raising beds. Incorporate coarse sand, bark, compost or other organic material to improve soil structure.

Before planting ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter bag or pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball and firm in and water once planted. Make sure plants are watered well until established if planting in a drier period. Plant with some general slow release fertiliser, and then every spring apply an organic based fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square meter as new growth begins.

Mulching annually helps suppress weeds and conserve moisture. Organic materials such as sawdust and bark contribute to soil structure as they decompose but keep deep mulching material away from the main stems. They benefit from a dressing (50g/m2) of general purpose fertiliser in early spring as new growth begins this will encourage more vigorous healthy growth. Sprinkle evenly and work into the top 2 to 3cm of the soil taking care not to damage surface roots.

The first summer and autumn after planting is critical for young plants; water thoroughly during dry periods. Pests and diseases can have serious debilitating effects on young plants so check regularly.

Relatively easy plant to grow hardly needs any pruning other than to keep growth in check.

Easy to grow from seed.

Relatively pest and disease-free, but the leaves can occasionally be eaten by caterpillars.

Native Identification Trail