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Peruvian Pepper Tree

الفلفل الكاذب (الشينوس) · Schinus molle

A shade tree with drooping branches and small pink berries. Widely planted on streets in Abha, Al-Baha, Taif and Tabuk.

Peruvian Pepper Tree
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Quick facts

Arabic nameالفلفل الكاذب (الشينوس)‏
English namePeruvian Pepper Tree‎
Scientific nameSchinus molle‎
FamilyCashew family (Anacardiaceae)
Plant typeEvergreen shade tree
Height8 to 15 m
Water use Low

Planting and harvest calendar

Best time to plant

February to April

Harvest

Not harvested

JanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMayJuneJulyAugustSeptemberOctoberNovemberDecember
Planting timeHarvest or flowering

Times are general for the Saudi climate and may shift a few weeks by region: cooler in the highlands and the north, warmer on the coasts and in the south.

Description

Drooping willow-like branches, thin fragrant feathery leaves and clusters of small pink berries.

Where it grows

Planted on streets and parks in the highlands.

Soil

Handles poor, dry soil.

Water and irrigation

Needs little water once established.

Climate and light

Handles drought and mild cold.

Propagation

By seed or cuttings.

Benefits and uses

  • Beautiful drooping shade
  • Handles drought
  • Pink berries decorate the tree
  • Grows fast

Drawbacks

  • Can spread and become invasive
  • Pollen and sap cause allergies
  • Strong roots

Important notes

Its berries are sometimes sold as pink pepper, but they are not true black pepper.