Peruvian pepper tree
A South American tree planted in Mediterranean coastal towns; its long flowering from late spring to midsummer gives bees good nectar.
- Nectar
- Good
- Pollen
- Medium
- Flowering
- JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
- Height
- 8-15 m
- Life cycle
- Perennial
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Peruvian pepper tree is a fine-leaved tree with weeping branches, native to the Andes. In Turkey it is planted as a shade and ornamental tree in coastal cities such as Antalya, Mersin, İzmir and Muğla. It is dioecious; the small, yellowish-white flowers of both female and male trees are borne in long panicles and are visited heavily by bees. Its nectar is good, and its pollen contribution is moderate.
Flowering
In a Mediterranean climate it flowers over a long, intermittent period from late spring to midsummer. In its native range in the southern hemisphere, the flowering time is different.
Honey and pollen
There is no widespread honey known under its own name; its nectar goes into the mixed summer honey of coastal cities. The pink fruits of female trees are used as a spice.
Note for the beekeeper
In South Africa and Australia it is regarded as an invasive tree spreading into dry areas; in the Mediterranean it has also become naturalised in places. Planting it near natural areas is not recommended.