Macropiper excelsum subsp. psittacorum, commonly known as Kawakawa or Pepper Tree, is an evergreen shrub native to the understory of coastal and lowland forests in New Zealand, as well as on Australia’s Lord Howe and Norfolk Islands. It typically grows up to 5 feet tall and wide, with a dense, rounded form. The plant is characterized by its heart-shaped, aromatic leaves that are often riddled with holes from insect feeding. The tiny, apetalous male and female flowers are borne on separate plants (dioecious) from July to September and are not particularly showy. However, the female plants produce fleshy, orange fruits that ripen in December and January, which are attractive to birds.

Kawakawa is valued for its medicinal properties, with the leaves traditionally used by Māori for various ailments. It is also appreciated for its cultural significance and as a culinary herb, adding a peppery flavor to dishes. In cultivation, it prefers part shade to full shade, moist but well-drained soils, and is relatively easy to maintain. It can be used in gardens as an understory plant, for border planting, or as a foliage contrast in subtropical themed gardens. While generally pest-free, it can occasionally suffer from root rot if drainage is poor.CC BY-SA 4.0