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Plant Guide

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Schinus molle

  • Common Name
    California Pepper Tree
  • CA Native
    Non-native
  • Plant Type
    Tree
  • Size
    25’ - 40’ X 25’ - 40’
  • Flower Color
    White Flowers, Pink Berries
  • Bloom Time
    • Spring
  • Leaves
    Bright green lacy leaves on weeping branchlets
  • Evergreen
    Evergreen
  • Deer Resistant
    Occasionally Damaged
  • Wildlife Value
    N / A
  • Growth Rate
    Fast
  • Hardiness
    Hardy
  • Adverse Growth Factors
    Invasive
  • Special Features
    • Attractive Berries
  • Water Use
    • Drought Tolerant
    • Moderate
  • Soil pH
    5.5-6.4 (acid)
  • Exposure
    • Full Sun
  • Soil Type
    Sandy
  • Drainage
    Good Drainage
  • Description and Cultural Plant Tips

    Invasive in Riparian Areas.

     

  • Master Gardener Comments

    Needs room to spread. Mature trees have gnarled and twisted trunks. Native to Peru but planted around the California Missions as early as 1830’s.  Water 2 - 3 times a month when getting started, then quite drought tolerant.

     

  • Varietals
    N / A