Overview
Piper aduncum is a climbing herbaceous perennial in the genus Piper, part of the Piperaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Piper aduncum grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. Suggested uses include indoor ornamental.
About
Piper aduncum, the spiked pepper, matico, hierba del soldado, achotlín, cordoncillo, higuillo or higuillo de hoja menuda, is a flowering plant in the family Piperaceae. Like many species in the family, the matico tree has a peppery odor.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Piper
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1b
Plant details
Piper aduncum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial, Conservatory Greenhouse
- Habit
- Climbing
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Indoor ornamental
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Piper aduncum
- Propagation
- Stem cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to scale insects
- Disease resistance
- Susceptible to root rot
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Piper aduncum?
Piper aduncum prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Piper aduncum need?
Piper aduncum grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Piper aduncum hardy in the UK?
Piper aduncum has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Piper aduncum?
Stem cuttings.
More in the Piper genus
- Piper angustifoliummatico
- Piper celtidifolium
- Piper chaba
- Piper heydei
- Piper futokadsuraJapanese pepper
- Piper indicum