Propagation
Sow seed when ripe and maintain a temperature of 19ş to 27ş C. (66ş to 81ş F).
Semi hardwood cuttings taken during summer and apply bottom heat.


Botanic information
Leaf: The leaves are ovate to broad-elliptical, up to 127mm (5in) wide with an acuminate apex and a short petiole that is sheathed at the base. The glossy green upper surface has prominent bowed veins

Flower: The tiny sessile bisexual or unisexual flowers have no sepals or petals and are accompanied by a small bract. They are densely arranged in a cylindrical spike up to 110mm (4?in) long.
The flowering period is in early summer but may vary in tropical regions.

Fruit: The 1-seeded drupe has a thin fleshy exocarp that becomes wrinkled and the seed contains the alkaloids piperine and piperidine. The small seeds are viable but the plant is commonly reproduced vegetatively.


Note
Peppers have been sort after since 327 BC during the period of Alexander the Great for seasoning food. The black peppers are produced by picking the green fruit which is then dried and grounded.

In white pepper production the fruit is allowed to ripen on the vine and the seeds are removed from the fleshy outer layer before being ground.