Schinus molle - Peppercorn Tree

Schinus molle – Peppercorn Tree is a fast-growing, semi-evergreen tree known for its pendulous foliage, sculptural form, and strong drought resistance. Often planted for shade, structure, and visual softness, it reaches a mature height of 10–15 metres with a wide canopy spread of 8–12 metres, making it ideal for feature planting, driveways, paddocks, and large rural landscapes.

Its fine, weeping leaves resemble those of a willow, giving the canopy a graceful, flowing appearance. In late spring to summer, the tree produces clusters of small white flowers, followed by rosy-pink berries—a signature visual element that adds colour and attracts birds.

Schinus molle – Peppercorn Tree thrives in full sun, tolerates poor soils, and is highly drought-tolerant once established, making it a reliable performer in dry, open environments. It requires very little maintenance, though occasional shaping can help maintain canopy balance.

This tree is also well-suited to Mediterranean, coastal, and semi-arid climates. Its characterful trunk, flowing foliage, and year-round presence make it a favourite for those seeking natural elegance at scale.

Key Details

• Botanical Name: Schinus molle

• Common Name: Peppercorn Tree

• Mature Height: 10–15 metres

• Mature Width: 8–12 metres

• Foliage: Fine, weeping, grey-green leaves; semi-evergreen

• Flowers: Small white flowers in spring to early summer

• Fruit: Pink-red clusters of peppercorn-like berries

• Form: Broad, weeping canopy; sculptural trunk

• Sunlight: Full sun

• Soil: Tolerates poor, sandy, and well-drained soils

• Drought Tolerance: High once established

• Maintenance: Very low; occasional pruning to shape if needed

• Uses: Shade tree, feature planting, driveways, paddocks, windbreak

• Evergreen/Deciduous: Semi-evergreen

Why Choose Schinus molle – Peppercorn Tree?

Schinus molle – Peppercorn Tree is one of the most graceful and recognisable feature trees in Australian landscapes. With its weeping, feathery foliage, gnarled trunk, and clusters of pinkish-red berries, it offers a striking presence and soft movement in any setting.

Fast-growing, drought-tolerant, and low-maintenance, the Peppercorn Tree is ideal for large gardens, rural properties, paddock planting, driveways, and shade around outdoor spaces. This is a tree that makes a statement—both sculptural and functional.