Piper excelsum (formerly known as Macropiper excelsum), commonly known as kawakawa, is a small tree of which the subspecies P. excelsum subsp. excelsum is endemic to New Zealand; the subspecies P. e. subsp. psittacorum is found on Lord Howe Island, Norfolk Island and the Kermadec Islands. Piper excelsum is found in both New Zealand and the Society Islands (Tahiti).
Kawakawa is highly disease-resistant and is generally not susceptible to diseases. In terms of care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When planted outdoors it needs minimal watering, and larger plants typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they have bloomed. Kawakawat is appropriate for anyone with an outdoor space, such as a garden or deck, and does not demand a lot of care experience.
How to keep Piper Excelsum.
Light
Kawakawa does best in partial light but can tolerate full sun. When planted, easing it in gradually over the seasons helps maintain its health. Insufficient light can stunt its growth and lower its vigor.
Temperature
Kawakawa shows strong temperature adaptability, able to endure higher heat and wider temperature fluctuations. In hot conditions, care should be taken to water appropriately and provide suitable shade to avoid sunburn. Conversely, Kawakawa is fairly sensitive to low temperatures; although it can tolerate some cold, excessively low temperatures can cause frost damage.
Fertilizer
The timing of fertilizing Kawakawa is important. Apply fertilizer in early spring and continue monthly until early summer. Fertilizer encourages lovely blooms and supplies energy during both dormant and active growth phases.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Tree, Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Piper
- Family
- Piperaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 2.13 m to 3.96 m
- Mature Spread
- 1.52 m to 3.05 m
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Green
- Flower Size
- 5.08 cm to 10.16 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid fall, Late fall, Early winter
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late winter, Early spring, Mid spring
- Native Area
- New Zealand
Other names.
