What is a live kava plant?

A live kava plant is a living Piper methysticum, the tropical Pacific Islander pepper-family plant whose root has been prepared into the kava beverage across the Pacific for thousands of years. It is sold for home cultivation by plant enthusiasts and collectors.

Growing a kava plant

Kava is a tropical understory plant that needs consistent warmth, high humidity, and filtered (not harsh direct) light. It is not frost-hardy, so in most US climates it has to be grown indoors, in a greenhouse, or moved inside for the cooler months. Kava is propagated from cuttings rather than seed, and the root takes years to mature.

How we ship live plants

Live kava plants are shipped through our partner and may take up to three weeks for delivery. Express shipping is not available on live plants.

Safety

Kava has been associated with liver injury in rare cases. Do not use it if you have a liver condition or take medication that affects the liver, and do not combine it with alcohol. Avoid driving or operating machinery after use. We recommend you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications. 21+ only.

Live kava plant at a glance

Botanical name

Piper methysticum

Family

Piperaceae

Product type

Live plant for cultivation

Climate

Tropical; not frost-hardy (grow indoors in most of the US)