Melegueta Pepper

The plant itself is a tall, reedlike herb which bears red or orange fruits 5–10 cm (2–4") long. Each contains 60–100 brownish seeds, which are aromatic and pungent and which constitute the spice.

Melegueta pepper was unknown to the classical world, but acquired popularity in Europe from the 13th century onwards. This interest, for a long time so strong that the part of W. Africa from which it was shipped was known as the Grain Coast, was already declining in the 18th century and is now slight. However, the seeds continue to be used as a spice and for medicinal purposes in W. Africa, and the pulp surrounding them in the fruits is chewed as a stimulant.