Peppercorn Tree - introduced (*Schinus molle)

Other names: Pepper Tree, *Schinus areira.

Family: Anacardiaceae.

Occurrence: Widespread. Sometimes in old house sites.

Identification:

• it grows to a medium-sized, spreading tree
• the tree is often branched from near the base
• the leaves are drooping and divided into narrow leaflets
• it has masses of small, spherical, round fruit
• the fruit, and the leaves when rubbed, have a strong peppery smell.

A widely planted species. It is tolerant of drought but may be affected by severe frosts. It has often been planted in old gold workings, where it is increasing in abundance.

Photos 1: A spreading Peppercorn Tree near Marne River, S.A.
2, 3: Flowers, leaves and fruit. Kennedy St, Castlemaine.
4: Fruit and leaves. Epsom.