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Piper auritum
Piper auritum
Piper auritum
Piper auritum

Piper auritum

TAXONOMY

FamilyPiperaceae
GenusPiper
Zone10

ABOUT

Piper auritum, commonly known as Mexican pepperleaf, hoja santa, or root beer plant, is a perennial shrub or small tree native to Central America and Mexico. It is known for its large, aromatic leaves that are often used in traditional Mexican cuisine. The plant thrives in wet tropical climates and can grow up to 4 meters in height.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Acuyo
Artanthe Aurita
Artanthe Seemanniana
Hierba Santa
Hoja Santa
Schilleria Aurita
Mexican pepperleaf
Piper alstonii
Piper auritilaminum
Piper auritilimbum
Piper auritum var. schiedeanum
Piper auritum var. seemannianum
Piper heraldi
Piper heraldii var. cocleanum
Piper heraldi var. amplius
Piper perlongipes

OVERVIEW

WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity80%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar

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DETAILS

Care Instructions
Piper auritum requires bright, indirect light and thrives in warm, humid conditions. It prefers consistently moist soil and should be watered regularly to maintain soil moisture. The plant does well in moderate temperatures and high humidity, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor growth in tropical regions.
Soil
Piper auritum prefers well-draining loamy soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged. A soil mix rich in organic matter is ideal for this plant. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist to support its growth.
Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support its nutrient needs. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can harm the plant.
Repotting
Repot Piper auritum every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current container. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one and ensure it has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, place it in the new one, and fill with fresh soil.
Propagation
Piper auritum can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings from healthy, mature plants during the growing season. Place the cuttings in water or moist soil until roots develop, then transplant them into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Pruning
Prune Piper auritum regularly to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems. Pruning can be done throughout the year as needed.
Toxicity
Piper auritum is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, as with any plant, it is advisable to keep it out of reach of pets and children to prevent accidental ingestion.
Additional
Piper auritum is often used in traditional medicine and culinary applications. Its leaves have a distinctive anise-like flavor and are used to wrap foods or as a seasoning. The plant can also be grown as an ornamental for its attractive foliage.
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