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Highly regarded as a condiment, this is probably the
 most widely
used spice in the world today.
It is a strong, woody climber to 20 ft (6 m) or more high with
prominently veined, glossy oval leaves.
The inconspicuous flowers, borne in long slender spikes in summer,
are followed by red globular fruit.
Plants begin bearing in 2 to 5 years and under good conditions may
produce for up to 40 years.
Cultivation: All species need a warm climate with moist, humus-rich
soil to grow well.
They will grow in sun or shade and in the right conditions are often
vigorous plants.
Propagate from seed or cuttings or by division or layering depending
on the plant type. |
