Schinus molle (Bekele-Tesemma, 2007)
| Schinus molle (Bekele-Tesemma, 2007) |
Schinus molle Anacardiaceae Peru, Andes
Common names
- English: Pepper tree
- Amargna: Qundo berbere
Ecology
An evergreen tree commonly planted in dry warm climates throughout the world. It will grow in almost any soil but prefers well‑drained sites. It is extremely drought resistant once established and reaches maturity in less than 20 years. It grows in Dry and Moist Bereha, and Dry, Moist and Wet Kolla, Weyna Dega and Dega agroclimatic zones from near sea level to 2,400 m.
Uses
Firewood, charcoal, spice (fruit), bee forage, shade, ornamental, soil conservation, windbreak, insect repellent (leaves).
Description
A tree with attractive light weeping foliage to 15 m, the trunk short, the crown spreading.
- BARK: Dark brown, peeling, very sticky latex forms if the bark is damaged.
- LEAVES: Compound to 30 cm, many narrow leaflets to 7 cm, with a peppery smell if crushed.
- FLOWERS: Very small, green‑yellow.
- FRUIT: Hanging on female trees, small round berries green to red then black, edible.
Propagation
Seedlings.
Seed
Germination rate 40–80%. 31,000–44,000 seed per kg.
- Treatment: Not necessary.
- Storage: Seed can be stored.
Management
A fast‑growing tree. Pollarding, lopping and coppicing.
Remarks
The tree should not be planted too close to buildings because branches tend to fall as the tree ages. Planted in Ethiopia as an avenue tree and also recommended for homesteads.
