Also known as American Pepper · Brazillian Peppertree · California Pepper Tree
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Peruvian Pepper Tree (Schinus molle) is an evergreen tree known for its graceful weeping habit, fragrant foliage, and clusters of pinkish-red berries.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers full sun for best growth and flowering. Tolerates partial shade.
Moderate to Low
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Drought-tolerant once established.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in warm climates. Protect from prolonged freezing temperatures.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 4/5 intensity |
The plant contains triterpenes and flavonoids. Ingestion can cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Contact with sap can cause skin irritation, itching, and blistering.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water the Peruvian Pepper Tree regularly, especially when young, ensuring the soil dries out slightly between waterings. Once established, it is quite drought-tolerant.
Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot, particularly in poorly draining soils. Adjust frequency based on climate and soil conditions.
Prune to shape the tree, remove dead or crossing branches, and control size. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Heavy pruning can be tolerated but may delay flowering and fruiting. Remove suckers from the base promptly.
Peruvian Pepper Trees are commonly propagated by seeds, which require stratification for best germination. Cuttings can also be taken from semi-hardwood or hardwood in late summer or autumn.
Rooting may require a rooting hormone and consistent moisture and warmth.
Young trees may need repotting every 2-3 years to accommodate root growth. Use a well-draining potting mix. Mature trees in the landscape rarely require repotting.
Ensure the new container is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid waterlogging.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Peruvian Pepper Tree (Schinus molle)
Where Peruvian Pepper Tree (Schinus molle) 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 molle |
Similar in genus Schinus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
