Brazilian pepper tree

noun

variants or Brazilian pepper
: an evergreen shrub or small tree (Schinus terebinthifolius of the family Anacardiaceae) native to Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay that has dark green, glossy leaves, clusters of white flowers, and bright red berrylike fruits

Note: The Brazilian pepper tree was introduced into the U.S. for ornamental cultivation during the mid to late 1800s but is now considered an undesirable invasive species in certain states and especially Florida.

called also Florida holly

Word History

First Known Use

1902, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Brazilian pepper tree was in 1902

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Cite this Entry

“Brazilian pepper tree.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Brazilian%20pepper%20tree. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

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