Piper magnificum

With its rounded habit, Piper magnificum assumes an upright and stately look that gives the impression of a dome, or umbrella shaped shrub. It reaches a maximum height of 5-10 ft, with a spread of 7-12 ft, and it thrives best in areas that experience semi-shady sunlight.

When planting, water thoroughly and regularly to keep the soil from drying out. This plant needs moderate water and will do well in most soils, as long as it is well-draining and is reaching a full sun position. It will tolerate short periods of drought. To achieve the best shape and abundant blooms, prune the lacquered peppertree at least once a year.

The Piper magnificum is a USDA Zone 9-11 plant, that requires more attention during cold months. When planting in a pot, make sure to protect it from the cold weather by moving it close to your home, or to a sheltered spot in your garden. Place the pot in a sunny position, limiting direct exposure to sun during the hottest parts of the day, and keep its roots before temperatures drop. During winter, cover the pot with plastic sheeting or mulch. Water regularly, but make sure it is not overwatered.

To maximize flowering, youcan apply fertilizer to the soil every 4-6 weeks, or top up existing mulch with fresh mulch each spring. To keep it clean and attractive, prune away any dead branches, and pinch the stems that are out of shape. Keep an eye out for aphids or whiteflies, and gargle any encroaching weeds.

With minimal effort, you will be rewarded with a fiercely beautiful Piper magnificum, a large shrub that has a rounded and stately look that adds a natural charm to every garden.

Similar plants:

• Piper aduncum, Piper angustifolium, Piper elongatum (Spiked Pepper, Higuillo de Hoja, Matico)
• Piper auritum (Root Beer Plant, Mexican Pepperleaf, Hoja Santa , Veracruz Pepper, False Kava-Kava, Sacred Pepper)
• Piper betle (Betel leaf)
• Piper blattarum (Higuillo)
• Piper longum (Bengal Pepper, Indian Long Pepper, Pippali, Piplamul)
• Piper methysticum (Kava, Kava-Kava)
• Piper nigrum (Pepper)
• Piper ornatum, Piper crocatum (Celebes pepper)
• Piper peltatum, Lepianthes peltata, Pothomorphe peltata (Pakina, Monkey's Hand, Santa Maria Plant, Cachimuela, Cordoncillo, Pariparoba, Pariparova, Jaguarandi, Capeba, Caena)
• Piper retrofractum, Chavica officinarum, Piper chaba, Piper officinarum (Long Pepper, Balinese Pepper)