Mexican pepper leaf Hoja Santa
Not permanent yet🌿 Herbs🌱 Babies later
🌿Main photo · Liz's Mexican pepper leaf Hoja Santa
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▶Quick grow facts
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Pot size
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Water
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Fertilizer
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Pollination
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Pests & diseases
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Look out for (Houston)
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What it is
A shade-loving tropical plant from Mexico to northern South America, 4 to 6 feet tall, with big heart-shaped leaves up to a foot long. It spreads by underground runners.
Chicago Botanic GardenWhy grow/eat it
The leaves smell strongly of licorice, sassafras, mint, clove, anise and black pepper.
Chicago Botanic GardenHow to use it
In Mexico it's traditionally used in tamales, mole verde and teas.
Chicago Botanic GardenHarvest in Houston
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Container tips
Likes moist soil and full sun to part shade. Hardy in zones 8 to 11.
Chicago Botanic GardenCautions
Chicago Botanic Garden says its main fragrance compound has been identified as a human carcinogen and that culinary use should be avoided. UF/IFAS predicts it is invasive and doesn't recommend it in Florida.
Chicago Botanic Garden · UF/IFAS Assessment