schinus

( SKY - nuss )

At-A-Glance Information

This genus of evergreen trees, commonly called Pepper Tree, is loved by some, disliked by others. These trees need full sun and have varying water needs depending on the species, but all produce clusters of fruit. These trees can be somewhat messy, dropping both berries and foliage. Take care when planting these trees in your yard, as the foliage can cause dermatitis in allergy-prone individuals, and the berries of some species, if ingested, can cause stomach issues. These trees are easy to grow, and are great shade and street trees (if you can stand the cleanup). 

schinus Species and Varietals

The genus Schinus is a member of the plant family Anacardiaceae and includes 34 species. The best growing zones for these trees varies depending on the species; for more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Schinus engleri
These trees are found in Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay and are threatened with extinction due to habitat loss. These subtropical plants have green flowers and compound leaves, and can be seen as trees or shrubs, reaching about 10 feet tall.

Schinus molle (Schinus mollis, Schinus areira) (California Pepper Tree, American Pepper. Peruvian Peppertree, Escobilla, Molle de Peru, Anacahuita, Pepperina)
This species grows well in zones 8, 9, 12-24, H1 and H2 and is native to the Andes Mountain Range in Peru. It quickly reaches between 25-40 feet tall.. Trunks of older trees are gnarled, knotted and burly, often sprouting new branches and leaves. Branches have drooping branchlets. Leaves are bright green and summertime flowers are yellow-white, followed by rose-colored peppercorns in fall and winter. These trees produce a lot of litter, and have invasive roots. Great for shading patios and play areas, and can be used as a hedge. Susceptible to root rot and scale. Needs little to no water when established, and moderate water as it grows.
PINK PEPPERCORNS? 

Schinus polygama (Hardee Peppertree, Chilean Pepper Tree)
Native to Argentina and Chile (and naturalized in California), this species reaches up to 30 feet tall when mature. Leaves are green, and mature bark is fissured and dark brown-grey. 

Schinus terebithifolia (Brazilian Pepper Tree, Wilelaiki, Christmasberry Tree, Florida Holly, Rose Pepper, Broadleaved Pepper Tree)
This species of Pepper Tree grows well in zones 13-17, 19-24, H1 and H2 and is native to Brazil. Reaches 30 feet tall and wide at a moderate growth rate, and can have a single trunk or be grown as a multi-trunked tree. Leaves are glossy and dark green, and berries are bright red. This species is highly variable; you should pick a tree during fruiting season that has the showiest berries and most attractive foliage. The fruit on this tree is used to make Pink Peppercorn, though when eaten in too high quantities can cause gastric distress. Susceptible to Verticillium Wilt, and will freely self-seed. Considered invasive in some areas. Great tree for shading patios and gardens; needs moderate to regular water for best performance.

Caring for and pruning schinus Trees

Propagation

Problems and Pests

Gallery

An old Schinus molle, or California Pepper Tree, that I found while walking a hillside property in Fremont, CA (Zone 15). This old tree (you can still see the stump behind the foliage) had fallen years ago, but was sprouting new growth from the base.
Date: April 16, 2023
A field of thea sinensis
Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'

Videos

A video all about growing camellias successfully
Propagating camellias

Resources

Wikipedia: Schinus
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 594, Schinus