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How to Identify and Manage the Brazilian Pepper Tree in Southern California

  • Writer: Wilzave Quiles Guzmán
    Wilzave Quiles Guzmán
  • Jun 16
  • 3 min read

If you're a homeowner in Southern California, Los Angeles, or Riverside, you've likely seen the Brazilian Pepper Tree (Schinus terebinthifolia). With its glossy leaves, clusters of bright red berries, and rapid growth, this evergreen tree might seem like a great addition to your yard—but looks can be deceiving. In fact, the Brazilian Pepper Tree is considered invasive in California and poses serious risks to both native ecosystems and residential landscapes.

In this blog, Deloya Masonry explores how to identify, manage, and replace the Brazilian Pepper Tree to help you make smarter, eco-conscious landscaping decisions.


Close-up of a Brazilian Pepper Tree featuring glossy green leaves and bright red berries, commonly seen in Southern California landscapes but considered invasive in areas like Riverside and Los Angeles.
Close-up of a Brazilian Pepper Tree featuring glossy green leaves and bright red berries, commonly seen in Southern California landscapes but considered invasive in areas like Riverside and Los Angeles.

How to Identify a Brazilian Pepper Tree

Spotting this invasive species early can prevent long-term landscape damage and costly removal. Look for these traits:

Feature

Description

Leaves

Compound with 5–13 glossy leaflets, bright green

Berries

Red berries in fall and winter, clustered like holiday peppercorns

Height & Width

Grows up to 30 feet tall and 25 feet wide, forming dense thickets

Trunk & Bark

Thin, smooth bark when young; roughens as the tree matures

Fragrance

Crushed leaves release a spicy, peppery scent

If you’ve seen a tree matching this description in your Southern California landscape, it's likely a Brazilian Pepper Tree.

Why Brazilian Pepper Trees Are Problematic in California

Although originally planted as ornamental trees, Brazilian Pepper Trees have become a major environmental concern in California. Here's why:


  • Highly Invasive – Birds disperse seeds, causing the tree to spread rapidly in both urban and wild areas.

  • Chokes Out Native Species – Competes with native plants for water, sunlight, and nutrients.

  • Difficult to Eradicate – Resprouts vigorously unless completely removed with root treatment.

  • Increases Fire Risk – Dense, dry canopies add fuel in wildfire-prone areas like Los Angeles and Riverside.

  • Damages Hardscapes – Aggressive roots can crack foundations, patios, sidewalks, and irrigation systems.



Safe and Effective Brazilian Pepper Tree Removal

Removing an invasive tree like this requires professional help. At Deloya Masonry, we recommend the following approach:


  1. Hire a Licensed Tree Removal Specialist – A professional will ensure proper extraction and disposal.

  2. Use Stump Grinding Equipment – This minimizes regrowth from roots.

  3. Apply Herbicide If Necessary – Only when advised by certified arborists.

  4. Monitor the Area Regularly – Promptly remove any new shoots or seedlings.

🔧 Bonus Tip: Never burn a Brazilian Pepper Tree—its resins and dense wood can create hazardous conditions.

Deloya Masonry offers Brazilian Pepper Tree removal and sustainable tree replacement services in Southern California.

Drought-Tolerant Tree Alternatives for Southern California Landscapes

If you're looking for non-invasive, water-wise trees that add beauty and value to your property, consider these local favorites:

Tree Name

Benefits

Best For

Western Redbud

Native, purple spring blooms, pollinator-friendly

Accent trees and front yards

Coast Live Oak

Fire-resistant, supports native ecosystems

Large residential landscapes

Desert Museum Palo Verde

Stunning yellow flowers, ultra-low water use

Xeriscape and desert-style gardens

California Sycamore

Fast shade growth, native to the area

Parks and large properties

Fruitless Olive Tree

Low-maintenance, Mediterranean appearance

Modern and drought-tolerant yards

Find more native plant ideas from the California Native Plant Society.

FAQ: Brazilian Pepper Tree in California

Q1: Is the Brazilian Pepper Tree banned in California? No, but it's classified as invasive and not recommended for landscaping use.

Q2: Can pruning control its growth? Pruning may temporarily shape the tree but won’t stop invasive spread or root issues.

Q3: Do I need a permit to remove it in Riverside or Los Angeles? Possibly—check with local ordinances. Many cities regulate the removal of trees based on size.

Q4: Is it toxic to humans or pets? While not highly toxic, the sap and berries can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.

Final Thoughts: Avoid Costly Mistakes with Invasive Trees

The Brazilian Pepper Tree might look appealing, but its downsides far outweigh its decorative benefits. From property damage to fire hazards and ecological impact, it's not worth the risk in Southern California landscapes.

Let Deloya Masonry help you:

✅ Remove invasive trees responsibly

✅ Select sustainable, low-water landscaping plants

✅ Design landscapes that thrive in Riverside, Los Angeles, and nearby communities


📞 Contact Deloya Masonry today to schedule a consultation for expert tree removal and eco-friendly landscape solutions.

Additional Resources for Responsible Landscaping:

 
 
 

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