Hoja Santa
Hoja Santa is a very aromatic herb in the pepper family that is native to Central America and is used in various drinks and foods. Having a flavor similar to black pepper but with notes of licorice, anise, and even eucalyptus, it is a versatile and interesting herb that is added to many different dishes. Hoja Santa contains a chemical called safrole that can be mildly carcinogenic in very high doses, so it is best to use Hoja Santa in moderation.
Latin Name: Piper auritum
Site and Soil: Full sun to part shade. We grow them as house plants that can be brought indoors in winter
Pollination Requirements: None needed
Hardiness: Not frost hardy, maybe to 30º F. but should be treated as a subtropical
Leaf Type: Evergreen
Flower Color: White
Taste: herby and delicious
Size at Maturity: 5-10 feet, smaller in a pot
Pests & Diseases: We have not noticed any pest or disease damage to our plants.
USDA Zone: 10a?