How to Grow Brazilian Pepper Tree
Brazilian Pepper Tree
Schinus terebinthifolia
treeThe Brazilian Pepper Tree is a tropical to subtropical evergreen tree native to South America, known for its feathery pinnate foliage and bright red berry-like fruits. It grows rapidly and is widely used as an ornamental, shade tree, and for wildlife food. However, it has become invasive in some regions, particularly Florida, due to its aggressive growth and ability to outcompete native vegetation.
When should you plant Brazilian Pepper Tree in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Brazilian Pepper Tree timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Brazilian Pepper Tree
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Brazilian Pepper Tree
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Brazilian Pepper Tree dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11; tolerates zone 9a in sheltered locations
Sign up free to see if Brazilian Pepper Tree grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Brazilian Pepper Tree timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
4-8 weeksSmall tender plants with simple leaves and weak root system; highly susceptible to frost and drought stress
Provide consistent moisture, protect from strong winds and extreme cold, use shade cloth in very hot climates during establishment
Juvenile Growth
6-12 monthsRapid stem and leaf development with feathery compound foliage becoming more pronounced; tree reaches 4-8 feet in height
Stake if needed for upright growth, prune lower branches to encourage clear trunk, begin reducing water frequency
Vegetative Establishment
1-2 yearsTree reaches 8-15 feet with dense canopy development; foliage is fully feathery and mature in appearance; no flowers yet
Prune for shape and structure, reduce fertilizer applications, establish drought tolerance through reduced watering
Flowering
2-3 weeksSmall inconspicuous white or pale yellow flowers appear in clusters (panicles) at branch tips; blooms typically in spring
Maintain established watering schedule, avoid heavy pruning during flowering, allow flowers to develop for fruit set
Fruiting & Maturity
Continuous after 2-3 years; fruit ripens 2-3 months after floweringBright red or coral-red small round fruits (berries) develop in clusters, highly ornamental; mature tree reaches 25-40 feet tall
Monitor for pests attracted to ripening fruit, collect seeds if desired for propagation, accept natural fruit drop or prune branches if heavy fruit load threatens structure
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Spray with horticultural oil or neem oil; prune heavily infested branches; introduce natural predators like ladybugs
-
Use yellow sticky traps, spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil, encourage natural parasitic wasps
-
Spray with neem oil or horticultural soap; prune affected foliage; maintain tree vigor
-
Keep tree healthy and vigorous, remove infested branches, apply systemic insecticide if severe
Uses
Culinary Pepper and Spice
CulinaryThe dried berries have a peppery, slightly fruity flavor and are used as a substitute for black pepper in some cuisines. Fresh berries can be used in beverages, jams, and as garnishes. [source]
Traditional Herbal Medicine
MedicinalUsed in traditional South American and Caribbean medicine for treating digestive issues, respiratory conditions, and inflammation. Contains volatile oils and has antimicrobial properties. [source]
Essential Oil & Aromatic Uses
HouseholdThe leaves and berries contain aromatic essential oils used in perfumery, aromatherapy, and traditional home remedies. The essential oil has insect-repelling properties. [source]
Wildlife Food Source
WildlifeThe abundant red berries are highly attractive to birds and wildlife, providing year-round food source. This is both beneficial for local fauna and a reason for its invasive spread. [source]
Ornamental Landscaping
CraftPrized as an ornamental tree for its feathery foliage, vibrant fruits, and rapid growth. Used for shade, screening, and aesthetic appeal in tropical and subtropical gardens. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Fruits ripen 2-3 months after flowering (typically late spring to early summer in most zones); harvest by hand-picking berries from branches or allowing them to fall naturally. Fruits are more flavorful and aromatic when fully red. Seeds can be collected from ripe fruits, cleaned, and dried for propagation.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Despite the common name 'pepper tree,' Brazilian Pepper is botanically unrelated to true pepper (Piper nigrum); both plants produce peppery berries but belong to different families (Anacardiaceae vs. Piperaceae)
- 🌱 The tree is listed as one of the world's 100 worst invasive species and is banned or strictly controlled in several countries including Australia, as it can form nearly impenetrable thickets and reduce biodiversity
- 🌱 A single mature tree can produce thousands of berries annually, which are eagerly consumed and dispersed by birds, making natural population control very difficult once established in an area
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Brazilian Pepper Tree planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Brazilian Pepper Tree seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Brazilian Pepper Tree timeline →