Night flowers
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Night flowers
One of my favorite new plants: peppervine.
The berries will turn super shiny black when ripe. They are very photogenic.
This one is climbing a maple, which are the bigger leaves.
Heartleaf Peppervine
Ampelopsis cordata
Although this vine is a member of the grape family, its rounded red fruits are not edible, unlike some of its fellow Ampelopsis species. Though its leaves are grapelike, it is easily distinguished from edible Vitis species by its small, compact flower or fruit clusters, which are not elongated like a grape’s would be.
Only one ethnobotanical record exists for the heartleaf peppervine-- the Cherokee drank an infusion of the bark for urinary issues. However, I would not recommend this myself, as there has not been sufficient research into the toxicity of this plant. Worse still, other species of the same genus, such as the edible A. arborea, have extremely high calcium oxalate content, which can cause sores in the mouth and even kidney stones (that wouldn’t help your urinary problems much!).
Magically, this plant makes a great substitute for the vines of a true grape, perhaps in sacrifice or tribute to Bacchus, or as a symbol of fertility and abundance. Garlands of it may be used to decorate a feast to celebrate the harvest. I associate this plant with the god Bacchus and the goddess Libera, the astrological sign Pisces, the element of Water, and the Sun.
Peppervine my beloved.
Somehow I've been missing this plant for several months in a row. Despite all these berries on it.
[Image description: five photos of a peppervine plant, with the center of each photo being a cluster of shiny blackberries. End image description.]
Peppervine
Stumbled across this vine yesterday while foraging mimosa blossoms. The berries are edible when cooked and properly processed—they are toxic otherwise. Used in jams, jellies, and tarts. The article below talks about how to process the fruit.
The berries are supposed to have a “sweet-and-spicy wild grape flavor.”
“They ripen right as the school year starts, you can find them climbing fencerows, woodland borders, and river banks all across the state. To harvest efficiently, snip the entire fruiting cluster off the vine rather than plucking individual berries, which can bruise the fruit and get irritating sap on your fingers.”
I’ll be keeping an eye on the vine I found.
K. Petre
Peppervine berries (Ampelopsis arborea) are dominating social media foraging and plant identification groups this week. People are asking if
Guest Reviews: Why Visitors Love Peppervine in Kumily
Nestled in the heart of Thekkady, Peppervine in Kumily has become a favorite retreat for travelers seeking comfort, luxury, and an authentic Kerala experience. The rave reviews from guests highlight the exceptional hospitality, serene ambiance, and top-notch amenities that make this hotel stand out. Here’s what visitors love about their stay at Peppervine:
Unparalleled Comfort and Elegant Rooms
Guests consistently praise the spacious and well-appointed rooms at Peppervine. The plush bedding, modern decor, and private balconies offering stunning views of the lush greenery create a truly relaxing experience. Many visitors mention how the cozy yet sophisticated interiors provide a home-away-from-home feel.
Exquisite Dining Experience
The in-house restaurant at Peppervine serves a variety of mouthwatering dishes, ranging from traditional Kerala delicacies to international cuisine. Guests appreciate the fresh ingredients, flavorful spices, and impeccable service. Many reviews highlight the delightful breakfast buffet, with local specialties like appam, puttu, and fresh tropical fruits.
Prime Location for Exploring Thekkady
Located conveniently near Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, guests find Peppervine to be the perfect base for exploring Thekkady’s natural beauty. Visitors love the easy access to jungle safaris, spice plantations, and cultural performances. The peaceful surroundings allow guests to unwind after a day of adventure.
Warm and Attentive Hospitality
The hotel staff receives glowing praise for their friendliness and professionalism. Guests commend the team’s dedication to ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay. Personalized services, quick responses to requests, and thoughtful gestures like surprise room decorations for special occasions make every visit special.
Refreshing Pool and Wellness Amenities
Many guests highlight the refreshing swimming pool as a perfect spot to relax amidst the serene landscape. The well-maintained wellness amenities, including a spa offering rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments, add to the overall luxurious experience.
Excellent Value for Money
Travelers appreciate that Peppervine offers a premium experience at competitive rates. The combination of top-tier services, comfortable accommodations, and delightful culinary offerings makes it a preferred choice for both budget-conscious and luxury travelers.
Conclusion
From honeymooners to family vacationers, Peppervine in Kumily has won the hearts of travelers from around the world. Its commitment to excellence in hospitality, prime location, and serene ambiance make it a must-visit destination in Thekkady. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Peppervine promises an unforgettable stay filled with warmth and luxury.
I love peppervine. Beautiful berries. Flowers attract so many species of wasps I can't even count them because they're all buzzing around so busily. Native. Perennial. What's not to love??? I literally got my mom to print one of my photos of it onto my wallet, of this same individual from last year or the year before :)
[ID: A slightly blurry photo of a peppervine plant climbing a barbed wire fence, with sunlight shining down from the upper left. The plant is covered in round berries in different stages of ripeness, with the ripest being shiny, reflective black, less ripe dark red, then pale pink, and finally light green for the most immature. The leaves are small, serrated leaflets in pairs of five. End ID.]