Piper

• Shrub or small tree 1-6m tall and up to 10cm or more in stem diameter.
• Alternate leaves have short petioles and elliptic to lanceolate blades 12-20cm long.
• Spikes contain minute flowers that develop into imbedded drupes (fruits) with brown or black seeds.
• Peppery taste and odour.

• Prefers rainforests, roadsides, waterways, plantations and pasture.

• Not known to exist in Queensland, but has potential to become a serious pest if introduced and planted.

• Flowers and fruits throughout the year.

Environmental

• Forms infestations that exclude all native vegetation.

Economic

• Poisonous to cattle.

• Find out how farmers can prevent weed spread.
• Find out how gardeners and outdoor enthusiasts can prevent weed spread.

• Call 13 25 23 if you find a plant you suspect may be piper to seek advice on control options.

• Piper is a prohibited invasive plant under the Biosecurity Act 2014.
• It must not be given away, sold, or released into the environment without a permit.
• The Act requires that all sightings to be reported to Biosecurity Queensland within 24 hours.
• By law, everyone has a general biosecurity obligation (GBO) to take all reasonable and practical steps to minimise the risk of Piper spreading until they receive advice from an authorised officer.