Family: Piperaceae
ʻAwa is an important medicinal plant that has been cultivated for the last 3,000 years throughout Oceania. It was spread far and wide by aboriginal voyagers throughout the tropical Pacific. The native range is obscure; some report it to be Eastern Malaysia or Vanuatu. Others say ʻawa came to be from a series of sterile cultivars bred by humans. Today, 100’s of cultivars exist all with their unique look, taste, growing conditions, and psychoactive properties.
ʻAwa is a culturally significant plant used in ceremonies and for social gatherings. Roots and sometimes lower stems are ground or chewed then brewed into a beverage. Consuming ʻawa invokes feelings of relaxation.
ʻAwa has a distinct look. The heart-shaped leaves (alternately arranged) are reminiscent of other Piper species. Leaf venation radiates out from a central point at the leaf base. The trunk and branches are jointed and swollen at the nodes. Colors of the trunk and branches range from green to black.
Viable fruits and seeds have never been observed or documented anywhere in the world, including Hawaiʻi. Male flowers will bloom after 2 or 3 years of age. They are creamy, white, and cylindrical. ʻAwa depends solely on humans for vegetative propagation by way of stem cuttings.
ʻAwa requires shady places protected from the wind and salt spray. Fertile soil with plenty of organic compost and consistent moisture is also needed.
The genus name Piper is Latin for pepper. Methysticum is Latinized Greek meaning intoxicating.
Plant Uses:
- Cultural significance
- Edible
- Medicinal
- Ornamental
- Shade
- Specimen
Plant Dangers:
- No dangers
