Long Pepper (Piper longum)

Long pepper, sometimes called Indian long pepper or pippali, is a flowering vine in the family Piperaceae. Indian long pepper is so named because its edible black berries are similar to pepper in taste and color. Long pepper plants produce fruit that is slightly spicier than its relative, Piper nigrum. The fruit typically grows around 3 inches long and is dried and crushed into spice. This vining plant is ideal for container growing and will grow up a small trellis or stake. Beyond its culinary merits, Long Pepper is also reputed to have many medicinal benefits: the roots have been used for various stomach ailments from aches and pains to constipation. The fruit has also been reported to be used for help with coughs, asthma, inflammation, and more. Grows to 12 feet in tropical regions and up to 6 feet in containers. Partial shade. Moist soil. Hardy to Zones 10-11. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.