Description
Piper methysticum, commonly called kava, is an upright, dioecious, evergreen shrub.
Kava or kava-kava is a crop of the western Pacific. The name kava is from Tongan and Marquesan. Piper methysticum, commonly called kava, is an upright, dioecious, evergreen shrub with heart-shaped glossy dark green leaves.
Plant Specifications
*above specification are indicative only. actual dimensions may vary by +-10%
Common Name |
Kava or kava-kava |
Maximum Reachable Height |
10 to 15 feet |
Flower Colour |
Creamy white |
Bloom Time |
Seasonal bloomer |
Difficulty Level |
Easy to grow |
Planting and care
Pot your kava kava plant in loose soil that allows for water drainage to prevent root rot: growers usually recommend a blend of 50% organic compost and 50% Perlite or coconut coir. Best located in shady areas that are protected from drying winds.
Remember, kava evolved to expect regular rainfall in its jungle habitat, so water your kava regularly! If you are growing it in a drier environment such as indoors, you will probably want to mist your kava leaves with a spray bottle to maintain a good level of humidity.Kava Kava care
This shrub is best grown in deep, organically rich, well-drained soils in moist, humid, tropical conditions with frequent rainfall. If you want to try growing kava at home, search for a kava vendor selling live seedlings or rootstock. Keep in mind that domesticated Piper methysticum (kava kava) plants are sterile, meaning they produce no seed and new plants must always be grown from cuttings or the root bundle of the plant.
Sunlight |
Part shade |
Watering |
Medium |
Soil |
Well-drained soil |
Temperature |
75 to 80 degrees |
Fertilizer |
Apply any organic fertilizer |
Kava Kava special feature
This tropical shrub is infrequently grown in the U.S. except for Hawaii. In temperate climates, it may be grown in containers that are overwintered indoors from fall to spring.
Kava Kava uses
Ornamental Use:
- The plant is used for an ornamental purpose
- In temperate climates, it may be grown in containers that are overwintered indoors from fall to spring
Medicinal Use:
- Arthritic and rheumatic conditions