Schinus molle
(California Pepper)
SIZE: Medium (Height: 20-30; Spread: 20-30).
GROWTH RATE: Moderate.
FOLIAGE: Light green, pinnately compound leaves, 1 long with linear-lanceolate leaflets up to 3" long.
FLOWER/FRUIT/BARK: Flowers are yellowish-white in drooping clusters 4-6" long. Clusters of rose-colored, dry berries 1/4" across appear in the fall in the warmer microclimates. Bark is light brown and fantastically gnarled, furrowed and burled with attractive irregular branching pattern.
MONTHLY WATERING NEEDS: 1st year: 4; 2nd year: 3; 3rd year: 1.
TREE CARE: Moderate. Requires light pruning to open canopy and to maintain weeping branches above the head height of the sidewalk user. Flower and dry berry drop in quantity requiring occasional sweeping necessary.
TOLERANCES: Poor soils, poor drainage and drought tolerant once established. Prefers warmer, sunny microclimates.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: Roots tend to be surface rooted and may cause sidewalk damage. Plant in 4 x 4 basins or, when possible, in larger parkways. Rootguards should also be used.
NOTABLE TRAITS: Beautiful sculptural tree where there is a large enough planting area