Black pepper (Piper nigrum) is a perennial vine native to the hot, humid lowlands of southern India. With our similar tropical climate, this popular and valuable spice can also grow well here.

Piper nigrum is native to the tropical forests of the Malabar Coast in southwest India, around the regions of Kerala, Goa, and Karnataka.

It’s made by grinding peppercorns, which are dried berries from the vine Piper nigrum. It has a sharp and mildly spicy flavor that goes well with many dishes. But black pepper is more than just ...