| Root Beer Plant | |
| Piper auritum | |
| a.k.a. Mexican Pepperleaf, Hoja Santa , Veracruz Pepper, False Kava |
Large-leaved perennial related to the pepper plant. Known for its leaves, which are used for their spicy aromatic scent and flavor, some liken to root beer, others to anise-clove.
Description: Shrubby perennial to 6+ft. This species is easily identified by its huge leaves which can grow over a foot long in older specimens. Plants will grow out from roots so it can spread in ideal conditions. Flowers are long, skinny, white, and fuzzy looking. They may be borne in season. The plant doesn't usually form many fruits outside of its native range.
Hardiness: Main foliage is hardy to about 32F, but will die back in colder areas and re-grow from roots. The root system is probably hardy to 15-20F.
Growing Environment: Grows best in part-shade or full-shade. Needs consistent and regular watering. Little other care is neccessary.
Propagation: By root division or separation of plantlets as they grow up from the soil.
Uses: The leaves are chopped and used for flavoring, as well as used whole, as wrappings for meats, tamales, etc.
Native Range: From Mexico through Colombia.
Local Adaptation
United States - Grows quite well in California, Florida, and most Gulf-coast states. Can be invasive in Hawaii.
Pacific Islands - Potentially invasive outside of its native range in warm, tropical areas with few predators.