Schinus Molle, Pepper Corn Tree

Schinus molle, commonly known as the Peppercorn Tree or California Pepper Tree, is a species of flowering tree in the Anacardiaceae family. The Peppercorn Tree is a medium-sized evergreen tree that can reach heights of 4.5-12 meters. It has a wide, spreading canopy with drooping branches. The tree's bark is thin, smooth, and grayish-brown. White flowers are produced in long panicles at the ends of branches, followed by reddish fruit which hang like strings of beads throughout the tree. Rough grey bark covers the trunk and branches which, with age develop wonderfully gnarled trunks and burls adding to its architectural beauty.

Best grown in full sun, in well drained, slightly fertile soil, Water until established then fairly drought tolerant. No pruning required.  Unnecessary to fertilise once in the ground. 

The leaves of Schinus molle are compound and pinnate, meaning they consist of multiple small leaflets arranged in pairs along a central stem. The leaflets are usually bright green, about 2-4 inches long, and have a lanceolate or elliptic shape.

The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are pale yellow or greenish-yellow in color. They are arranged in panicles, which are branched clusters that hang down from the branches. The flowers bloom in late spring or early summer.

The fruit of the Peppercorn Tree is a berry-like drupe that starts off green and turns pink or red as it matures. Each fruit is about 1/4 inch in diameter and contains a single seed. The berries resemble peppercorns, hence the common name "Peppercorn Tree." They are often used as a spice substitute for true pepper.

The leaves and bark of Schinus molle have a distinctive, pleasant fragrance when crushed or bruised. The tree is often praised for its aromatic qualities and is sometimes used as a landscaping plant for its scented foliage.

Cultural and Medicinal Uses: In its native range, the Peppercorn Tree has been used for various purposes. The fruits and leaves have culinary applications and are used as a seasoning or spice. Additionally, the tree has a long history of traditional medicinal uses, such as treating digestive disorders, skin ailments, and respiratory conditions.

Schinus Pepper Corn tree is available from Online Plants, Australia's leading e-commerce plant nursery. Located in Melbourne we offer fast, accurate and careful plant delivery to all Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Canberra and Brisbane, metropolitan and regional areas.