Embelia ribes aka Vidanga

Embelia ribes is an evergreen climber in the primrose family. Common names include false black pepper and vidanga. Its native range runs from India to southern China and Malesia. It grows in wet tropical regions, in forests and scrub. It also grows along roadsides and at forest edges. Some records place it at 6,560 feet [2,000 metres] above sea level.

This woody plant can spread across the ground or climb trees. Garden references list a height of 49 feet [15 metres]. Other accounts describe stems reaching 66 feet [20 metres]. One source gives longer lengths, to 115 feet [35 metres]. These figures describe climbing length as well as height. PFAF lists a spread of about 1 foot [0.3 metres]. The stalks can be red or purple. The plant keeps its leaves throughout the year.

In cultivation, it needs support for its climbing stems. Nearby trees can provide that support for young plants. It grows fast and prefers some shade rather than full sun. Keep the soil moist, with good drainage. Light soil and sandy loam suit it best. It can also grow in clay and other soil types. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soils. PFAF places it in USDA zones 10–12. Plants can grow from seed or stem cuttings. Keep cuttings in shade while they take root. Harvests may begin after two years.

Several parts serve as food in its native range. People eat the young leaves and shoots raw. They also mix the leaves with other greens alongside rice. The sour leaves can replace tamarind in soups and vegetables. The fruit tastes both sweet and sour and is eaten raw. Dried fruit has been mixed into black pepper as an adulterant. Leaves and fruit also go into drinks. People chew the young stems as a snack. These uses give the climber a place in food forests.

The plant also has a long history in Ayurvedic medicine. Traditional uses include powdered berries for intestinal worms. People apply berry paste to skin complaints and headaches. Crushed fresh bark serves as a leech repellent. These records describe uses, not proof of safe treatment. A berry extract has shown effects that reduce fertility. The fruit pulp also has a purgative effect. Both PFAF and Useful Tropical Plants list no known hazards. That statement does not establish safety for every use or dose.