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California Pepper Tree

I love trees. But, I believe the tree I love the most is the California Pepper Tree. It is an everygreen tree that is of the species Schinus Molle. It is native to the areas of Peruvian Andes to South Brazil. It has such beautiful leaves and red berries when in bloom. It can grow tall but what I remember as a kid, as it branched out, with the branches low, it was easy for us kids to climb the tree. We used the berries for all kind of fun things. We would use them to line out our house area where we played. We used the berries for play food, but of course did not eat them as mom said they were poisonous, which I found out later was not true.

The California Pepper drapes beautifully like a Weeping Willow. Some regard it a messy tree, especially if you have sidewalks or driveways where your trees grow. I understand this species has become invasive in Florida and in some places in California. What is fascinating is that the berries are sweet, can be used to make a tea like drink. Also, in past history, the leaves were used in mummification. The plant is very aromatic and you can purchase medicinal oils under the species' name Molle. If you are interested in more information about this tree, there is a short, but informative video: https://youtu.be/MT5-lt016kU?si=OM1vO_o7Vn-Fzrex.



What's your favorite tree?