What Are Brazilian Pepper Trees?
Origins & Introduction
Native to Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay, the Brazilian pepper tree was introduced to Florida in the 1800s as an ornamental—admired for its festive appeal and nicknamed “Florida holly” or “Christmasberry.” Gardening Solutionstsusinvasives.orgNational Park ServiceWikipediaAppearance
These evergreens form dense thickets, often reaching 15 to 30 feet tall (occasionally up to 40 feet). They feature compound, aromatic leaves (with 3–13 toothed leaflets), white/cream flower clusters in late summer to fall, and glossy berries that turn bright red by winter. FWCPlant DirectorySolutions For Your LifeCity of Punta Gorda
Why Are They a Problem in Florida?
Brazilian pepper tree is considered one of the most aggressive invasive species in Florida:
Rapid Spread & Heavy Infestation
They now cover over 700,000 acres in Florida, spanning urban and wild areas—from ditches and disturbed fields to pine flatwoods, mangrove edges, and hardwood hammocks. Plant DirectoryWhat's Happening Around FloridaEverglades CISMANational Park ServiceEcosystem Damage
Their dense canopies shade out native vegetation, drastically reducing biodiversity and creating poor habitat for wildlife. They even alter fire regimes and soil chemistry. Plant DirectoryEverglades CISMAWikipediaAllergenic & Irritant
As a member of the same plant family as poison ivy and oak, Brazilian pepper can cause dermatitis, respiratory irritation, and other allergic reactions. Burning the plant can release airborne irritants that affect skin, lungs, and eyes. Plant DirectorySolutions For Your LifeWikipediaIt's Illegal
Classified as a Class I invasive and on the Florida Noxious Weed List, it’s illegal to sell, transport, or plant Brazilian pepper trees without a special permit. Plant DirectoryAsk IFAS - Powered by EDISWikipedia
Managing Brazilian Pepper Trees
1. Prevention
Don’t plant or propagate them.
Avoid inadvertently dispersing seeds via cuttings or yard debris. Plant DirectoryWhat's Happening Around Florida
2. Mechanical Removal
Pull out seedlings by hand when feasible.
For larger trees, cut close to the ground, then remove or kill the root system—even small roots (~¼ inch) can regrow. Plant DirectoryCity of Punta GordaAsk IFAS - Powered by EDISNational Park Service
3. Herbicide Treatments
Cut-stump treatment: Immediately apply triclopyr, glyphosate, or aminocyclopyrachlor to freshly cut stumps. Plant DirectorySolutions For Your LifeAsk IFAS - Powered by EDIS
Basal bark (bark “paint”): Apply triclopyr ester or acid.
Foliar spray: Use in cases where other plants won’t be harmed. Plant DirectorySolutions For Your LifeNational Park Service
4. Biological Control
Florida has approved two biocontrol agents: Brazilian peppertree thrips (Pseudophilothrips ichini) and yellow Brazilian peppertree leaf gallers (Calophya latiforceps). These insects target the plant specifically. Plant DirectoryThe Lazy Naturalist - Sarasota, FloridaEverglades CISMA
5. After Management
Replant with native alternatives like varnish leaf (Dodonaea viscosa), elderberry (Sambucus canadensis), or seagrape (Coccoloba uvifera). Everglades CISMA
Report wild occurrences using platforms like IveGot1.org or other local resources. Everglades CISMA
Real-World Experiences
From a Reddit user in Tampa Bay:
“Brazilian Pepper is all over the place in the Tampa Bay area… places like vacant lots… will always have Brazilian Pepper return unless it's removed annually.” Reddit
Another shared:
“I have sap burns everywhere along my wrists where I wasn't covered up.”
“About a day or so later, I started to really notice it.”
—True testaments to how even minor contact can cause significant irritation. Reddit
Quick Summary Table
Topic
Key Point
Identification
Evergreen, compound leaves, white flowers, red berries
Spread Mechanisms
Seeds spread by animals and water; resprouts from roots
Impacts
Invades native habitats, causes health issues, illegal
Removal Methods
Mechanical + chemical + biocontrol recommended
Alternatives
Native shrubs; report invasions; avoid planting more
If you're dealing with Brazilian pepper trees on your property or local area, Trimworks Tree Service in Largo, Florida can help. Call us at 727-289-1633