The term “pepper tree” most commonly refers to the species Schinus molle, often called the California Pepper Tree or Peruvian Peppertree. A related species, the Brazilian Pepper Tree (Schinus terebinthifolius), is also sometimes given the same common name, leading to frequent confusion. This article details the specific features of Schinus molle that allow for its accurate identification.
General Growth Habit and Trunk Appearance
The Schinus molle is a moderate to large evergreen tree, typically reaching heights between 25 and 40 feet. Its most recognizable feature is its broad, rounded canopy paired with a pronounced weeping or pendulous growth habit, giving it a willow-like appearance. This overall silhouette is wide-spreading, often making the tree as broad as it is tall, providing significant shade.
The trunk of a mature pepper tree is typically short and thick, developing a distinctly gnarled and twisted appearance with age. Its bark is rough and deeply furrowed, displaying a grayish-brown color that occasionally shows reddish-brown splits. As the tree matures, the bark may become coarsely scaly and flake away in irregular vertical strips. The wood and bark contain a sticky, aromatic latex that may be exuded if the trunk is damaged.
Distinctive Foliage and Branch Structure
The branch structure features smaller, slender branches that are noticeably pendulous. The foliage is bright green and evergreen, remaining on the tree throughout the year. Leaves are pinnately compound, meaning they consist of numerous small leaflets attached to a central stalk.
Each compound leaf can measure between 8 and 14 inches long and is composed of 19 to over 40 narrowly lance-shaped leaflets. A key identifying characteristic is the strong, aromatic scent released when the leaves are crushed, often described as peppery or turpentine-like. This fragrance is due to the high concentration of essential oils found within the leaves.
Flowers and Berry-like Fruit
The reproductive structures of the pepper tree are small and relatively inconspicuous. Tiny, yellowish-white flowers appear in loose, hanging clusters known as panicles, which can grow up to 12 inches long. The species is dioecious, meaning individual trees bear either male or female flowers, with only the female trees producing the ornamental fruit.
The fruit, which gives the tree its common name, develops into small, spherical drupes about 5 to 7 millimeters in diameter. These mature from green to a distinct rosy-pink or red color, appearing in dense, drooping clusters that persist on the tree for many months. These ornamental drupes are harvested and sold commercially as “pink peppercorns” due to their peppery flavor and appearance.
Important Identification Notes and Look-Alikes
The pink peppercorns produced by Schinus molle are important to distinguish from true black pepper (Piper nigrum), as they are not botanically related; the pepper tree belongs to the cashew family (Anacardiaceae). The Brazilian Pepper Tree, Schinus terebinthifolius, is a common look-alike and relative, but its leaves typically have fewer, broader leaflets and the fruit tends to be a darker, more vibrant red.
It is important to note that the Schinus genus is in the same family as poison ivy and sumac, and the plant contains similar oil compounds which can cause contact dermatitis or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. While the pink peppercorns are widely used as a spice, the fruit and leaves contain compounds that can be mildly toxic to certain animals and, in large quantities, may cause gastrointestinal upset in humans.