Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, is a flowering vine in the family Piperaceae. It is native to South India and is cultivated for its fruit, which is dried and used as a spice and seasoning. The fruit, known as peppercorns, can be processed to produce black, white, and green pepper, each with distinct flavors and uses in cooking. The plant grows in tropical climates and can reach heights of up to 4 meters (13 feet). Piper nigrum is often grown on trellises and requires a warm, humid environment to thrive. It is one of the most traded spices globally, valued for its culinary and medicinal properties.