The black pepper plant, scientifically known as Piper nigrum, is a flowering vine, native to the Malabar Coast of India, that is cultivated for its fruit, the peppercorn. These peppercorns are dried and used as a spice and seasoning. The plant is a perennial, woody climber, reaching up to 10 meters (33 ft) in its natural habitat, but typically maintained at a more manageable 3-4 meters (10-13 ft) when cultivated. It features glossy, green, heart-shaped leaves and produces small white flowers on long spikes. The fruits, known as peppercorns, are small, round, and turn from green to red when ripe.