A tropical perennial growing up to 5′ tall, it has lanceolate leaves up to 9″ long, originally from West Africa, brought over to Surinam by the slaves. The numerous seeds are borne in grayish – brown capsules. The important part of this plant is the seed; the small reddish – brown seeds have a pungent aroma with a pepper – like heat. This spice is tempered with among others, flavors reminiscing of hazelnut, butter and citrus.