Peppervine
Nekemias arborea
- Native to:
- Puerto Rico, United States, Virgin Islands
Catsincaves
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Vitaceae
- Genus:
- Nekemias
- Species:
- Nekemias arborea
- USDA Symbol:
- NEAR5
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Shrub , Vine
- Height:
- 1500 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun,Part Shade
- Drought Tolerance:
- Medium
- Bloom Months:
- may,jun,jul
- Bloom Colors:
- greenish-white
Wildlife Benefits
- Bees:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
- Butterflies & Moths:
- ★★★★★ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- birds, small mammals
- Fall Color:
- red, purple
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- rich, well-drained loamy soil
- pH:
- 5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- dry to moderate
- Notes:
- prefers forested areas with organic matter
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days
- Germination Time:
- 30–60 days
- Notes:
- Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 60-90 days to break dormancy.
Where to Buy
Nationwide Seller
- Sheffield's Seed (seeds)