The Flowers of the Brazilian Pepper Tree

Blooming Season

• The blooming season of Brazilian pepper trees is closely tied to the local climate. The trees bloom sporadically year-round in tropical and subtropical areas with a noticeable peak in flower production occurring in autumn and winter. A second blooming season sometimes occurs in spring, although it is far less vigorous. In more temperate areas such as coastal California, the blooming season is confined to the spring and summer months.

Flower Description

• Brazilian pepper trees produce male and female flowers, although they are identical in appearance. The flower panicles emerge from the base of the leaves, growing to between 2 and 5 inches in length at maturity. The panicles are covered in tiny, creamy white flowers, each with a diameter of only 0.2 mm and a roughly star-like shape. In the center of each flower are two rows of five stamens, which are white in color but with golden yellow, disc-like structures at the tip. Like the foliage, the flowers emit an unpleasant, vaguely turpentine-like fragrance when handled.

Pollination and Fruit Development

• Pollination occurs throughout the blooming season, when bees and other common pollinators mob the flower panicles. Successfully pollinated Brazilian pepper tree flowers will begin to swell at the base and the petals will fade and fall off. The emerging fruit is bright green in color at first, later ripening to a striking coral-red color. As the seed inside matures, the fruit becomes papery and hollow with the dark brown seed 0.3 mm wide, suspended in the center.

Potential Hazards and Concerns

• Brazilian pepper tree flowers pose a health hazard to many people because they are highly allergenic. Susceptible people exposed to the tree when it is in bloom may develop an itching skin rash, swelling of the face and eyelids, respiratory difficulties and other allergy symptoms. The berries are also mildly toxic to humans and may cause stomach upset and vomiting if ingested, in addition to the allergy symptoms. The tree should be grown away from areas frequented by people with allergies, and the flower and berry litter should be swept up to keep it away from curious children and pets. Additionally, the tree is considered an invasive weed in many areas, so the flowers and berry clusters should be pruned off and discarded to keep it from self-sowing.