Peruvian pepper tree

Schinus molle L.

Family: Anacardiaceae

Pet & Human Safety

People: No hazard foundPets: Not on the ASPCA lists as we read them

Hazardous parts

Not yet checked.

Preparation

n/a

Hazard type

Not yet checked.

Hazard route

Not stated by our sources (not a clearance). Detail: no human-hazard statement

How complete this information is

We have not researched the safety of this plant yet.

Toxic to pets

No ASPCA entry found.

ASPCA index has no Schinus molle page. Do not treat as pet-safe.

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Look-alike warning

Could be mistaken for Other plants with a similar name or look. To tell them apart: Match on the scientific name, Schinus molle L. (UC IPM, Cal-IPC, Stanford and Kew WCVP agree), not on the common name.. Peruvian pepper tree (Schinus molle) is not Brazilian peppertree (Schinus terebinthifolia), a related species. Stanford says the pink peppercorn-like fruits of both appear in colorful peppercorn blends. "California pepper tree" is a misleading name for a South American tree (Stanford).

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

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Care

Hardiness zones: Not checked yet
Light: Full sun per UC IPM.
Water needs: low low is UC IPM's statement that pepper trees need little water once established. Finger-test two inches down while it is young.
Mature size: UC IPM: 25-40 ft tall; Cal-IPC: grows to 15 m (about 49 ft)

Soil & Drainage

Pruning & Flush Rhythm

Feeding Schedule

How to prepare the soil, when and what to feed, and how and when to prune where that applies.

Get the app: coming soon