Family: Piperaceae

ʻAlaʻala wai nui is a low-growing native herbaceous plant. A member of the pepper family (Piperaceae), ʻalaʻala wai nui seeds have a pepper-like taste. Small and sticky, they resemble ground pepper. ʻAlaʻala wai nui grows in the forest’s understory as well as epiphytically on trees and hāpuʻu.

A suitable houseplant, keep out of the direct sun when in cultivation. Outside, it grows best in cinder mounds, on shady rocks, on hāpuʻu, or on a mossy tree trunk if it can be provided with frequent water. Propagate vegetatively by cuttings or by seed.

Plant Uses:

• Container plant
• Cultural significance
• Indoor plant
• Medicinal
• Shade
• Specimen

Plant Dangers:

• No dangers