Water
Water Brazilian pepper thoroughly when the top 5-8 cm of soil feels dry. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Reduce watering frequency in cooler months to prevent waterlogged roots, which can lead to root rot.
Also known as Brazilian Holly · Brazilian Pepper Tree · Brazilian Peppertree
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolia) is an evergreen shrub or small tree known for its attractive glossy foliage and clusters of red berries. It's a popular ornamen
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering and fruiting.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry between waterings, reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-29°C. Protect from frost; it is not cold-hardy.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during growing season with balanced fertilizer, avoid over-application.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Fruits and leaves can cause dermatitis.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Brazilian pepper thoroughly when the top 5-8 cm of soil feels dry. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Reduce watering frequency in cooler months to prevent waterlogged roots, which can lead to root rot.
Prune Brazilian pepper to maintain desired shape and size, and to remove dead or crossing branches. Heavy pruning can be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Pinching back young plants encourages bushier growth.
Brazilian pepper can be propagated from seeds, which germinate readily. Cuttings taken from semi-hardwood in summer also root well.
Ensure cuttings are treated with rooting hormone and kept in a humid environment for best results.
Repot Brazilian pepper every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one.
Repotting is best done in spring before the active growing season.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Brazilian Pepper (Schinus terebinthifolia)
Where Brazilian Pepper (Schinus terebinthifolia) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Schinus |
| Species | Schinus terebinthifolia |
Similar in genus Schinus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
