Brazilian Pepper Tree

Scientific Name: Schinus terebinthifolia

Plant Family: Anacardiaceae (Cashew family)

Native Region: South America (Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay); now widespread and invasive in Florida, California, and Hawaii.

Brazilian Pepper Tree

Brief Description

A sprawling evergreen shrub or small tree characterized by compound leaves with 7-9 serrated leaflets and reddish stems. It produces clusters of small white flowers followed by bright red berries.

Care Instructions

In many regions, this is considered a noxious weed and cultivation is discouraged or illegal. If grown, it requires full sun, well-draining soil, and minimal watering once established. It is highly adaptable and requires almost no maintenance.

Medicinal Value

We do not currently provide medicinal value for plant identifications.

Sunlight

Full sun to partial shade (4-8 hours of direct light per day).

Watering

Drought-tolerant once established. Water occasionally during dry spells. Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves and root rot.

Soil

Extremely adaptable; thrives in sandy, loamy, or clay soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.

Hardiness Zone

9-11 (tolerates temperatures down to 20°F for short periods).

Growth Habit

Perennial evergreen shrub/tree. Can reach 15-30 feet tall and wide at a fast growth rate.

Bloom Season

Small white flowers in late summer/fall, followed by glossy red drupes (berries) in winter.

Toxicity

Leaves, sap, and berries contain resins that can cause skin irritation (similar to poison ivy) and respiratory issues if burned. Toxic to horses and can cause digestive upset in pets.

Propagation

Easily propagated by seeds dispersed by birds, or via semi-hardwood cuttings and suckers.

Common Pests & Issues

Leaf-rolling caterpillars may feed on leaves. Generally resistant to most diseases, though its primary 'issue' is being highly invasive and crowding out native species.

Similar Species

Compare to Winged Sumac (Rhus copallinum), which has a 'winged' leaf stalk, and Peppertree (Schinus molle), which has much narrower, lace-like leaflets.

Interesting Facts

This plant is a relative of poison ivy and mango. Despite being sold as pink peppercorns, some people have allergic reactions to them due to their membership in the cashew family.

Created At: 2026-06-06T12:46:53.146074