Root Beer, Acuyo, Hoja Santa (Piper auritum) 2 plants!

Description

Piper auritum is a tropical herb that is variously known as hoja santa, acuyo, pepperleaf , Vera cruz pepper and root beer plant.
This species is very fast-growing to a height of 12 feet or more with stout upright stems and individual leaves that often grow more than a foot across. The leaf surface has a velvety texture.
It is these large leaves that are used to wrap tamales, fish and meats before cooking, giving a distinctive flavor to the food inside. The leaves are also an essential ingredient in mole verde, and are chopped in soups and egg dishes. They even add a delightful flavor to tea and smoothies.
The flavor is a complex blend of sassafras, anise and black pepper.
In Panama the leaves are fed to fish that are later cooked and eaten. The flesh of the fish takes on the flavor of the leaves it has eaten.
Plants spread by underground runners and a single plant can quickly become a large clump capable of providing all the acuyo you can eat. Keep the plant in a large container to keep it from spreading out of control.
The leaves will be damaged by frost, but the root system will survive through a hard freeze and the plant is reportedly root hardy through USDA Zone 8.
Each order is for 2 plants that are shipped bare-root, similar to the last photo.
All of my products are grown chemical-free!
Check out all my listings for more edibles, gingers, bromeliads, and other interesting plants. Thank you!
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