Piper Pedicelllatum - a Promising NTFP for Enhancing Forest Productivity in Moist Tropical and Sub-tropical forest Areas

Piper pedicellatum C.D.C, belonging to family Piperaceae is an erect evergreen useful under shrub of moist tropical and subtropical forest areas. The plant commonly known as 'pipla' in its natural zone in the North East India. Among many NTFP bearing plants which can be planted in the forest areas under tall tree canopy, this plant is one which has the potential to be profitably planted for its fruit or berry used as spice and in Ayurvedic preparations, to enrich the existing forest areas. This will help to generate employment and income to the rural masses. Nursery techniques, post harvesting treatments, importance of the plant and market potential of the species is presented in the paper.