Piper sp. Sumatera 'Pink Veins' – Rare Piper with Dark Leaves and Vivid Pink Venation


Piper sp. Sumatera 'Pink Veins' is an eye-catching foliage Piper from Indonesia, admired for its jet-dark leaf surface and striking pink venation. Among Piper cultivars, this is one of the most ornamental, standing out with its high-contrast look and bold coloration.
 
● Why Piper sp. Sumatera 'Pink Veins' stands out


Unique venation: bright pink primary and secondary veins against a nearly black background.
Foliage form: ovate-lanceolate leaves with a leathery texture and defined midrib.
Collector appeal: far rarer than patterned Piper species commonly found in cultivation.
Decorative value: works as a statement plant in both climbing and shrubby growth forms.
 
● Natural background


Though its exact taxonomy remains unresolved, this plant originates from Sumatra, Indonesia. Like many Piper species, it grows in tropical lowland forests as a climbing understory plant, thriving in filtered light, high humidity, and consistently moist but well-draining soils.
 
● Care essentials for Piper sp. Sumatera 'Pink Veins'


Light: bright, indirect exposure preserves the vivid pink vein color; avoid direct midday sun.
Temperature: prefers 20 – 28 °C; do not expose to drops below 15 °C.
Humidity: high humidity (65 – 85%) enhances healthy leaf expansion and color saturation.
Water: keep evenly moist; let the top 2 – 3 cm of substrate dry slightly before watering again.
Substrate: loose and airy mix such as bark, coco coir, perlite, and charcoal for drainage and oxygenation.
Fertilizer: balanced liquid feed at low strength during active growth to support leaf production and color.
Support: appreciates a slim climbing aid to show off larger leaves.
Semi-hydro: adapts well to mineral or semi-hydro substrates if moisture is consistent.
 
● Common grower issues


Vein color fading: often caused by insufficient light or weak feeding; increase filtered brightness and feed consistently.
Brown leaf edges: usually a sign of low humidity or drought stress; improve environment and shorten dry cycles.
Yellow patches: linked to overwatering or cold roots; ensure drainage and stable warmth.
Pest risk: monitor for thrips or mites on undersides and midrib; treat promptly with IPM methods if seen.
 
● Additional collector notes


Identification: unmistakable due to deep pink venation over dark foliage.
Growth habit: scandent, with the potential to climb or trail depending on support.
Rarity: seldom encountered outside specialist collections or small-batch exports.
Toxicity: not confirmed pet-safe; avoid access for pets and children.
 
● Etymology


Genus:Piper comes from Latin piper, derived from Ancient Greek πέπερι (péperi, “pepper”), which in turn originates from Sanskrit पिप्पलि (pippali, long pepper).Species group: this Sumatra form is not formally published as a species but circulated under the trade name 'Pink Veins'.
 
● Propagation and size


Propagation: stem cuttings root reliably in humid, warm conditions.
Medium: fine bark with perlite or semi-hydro setup encourages healthy rooting.
Size indoors: 40 – 70 cm typical height with support; leaves reach 10 – 15 cm.
 
● Frequently asked by growers


How do I keep the veins vivid?Stable bright indirect light and light, regular feeding are key to maintaining the deep pink color.
Does it climb or stay bushy?With support it climbs neatly; without it, stems arch outward and trail.
Can it handle lower humidity?It will survive, but leaf quality and vein color diminish. Best results are at 65% or above.
 
● Bring Piper sp. Sumatera 'Pink Veins' home


This plant is a rare opportunity to grow a Piper with true ornamental value. Secure yours today and enjoy the deep black foliage highlighted by vivid pink veins – a collector’s piece that transforms any indoor jungle.