Schinus terebinthifolia

9.9

A small tree or bush from Brazil with pink berries, grown for decoration but often spreads and harms native plants

noun

Specialized

: Schinus terebinthifolia

The invasive Schinus terebinthifolia has displaced many native species in Florida.

Examples

The berries of Schinus terebinthifolia are sometimes used as a pink pepper substitute.
The Schinus terebinthifolia is often used in landscaping.
Gardeners should be cautious when planting Schinus terebinthifolia due to its rapid spread.
Many gardeners appreciate the beauty of the Schinus terebinthifolia.
The Schinus terebinthifolia is often chosen for its attractive foliage in garden designs.
Gardeners should consider the Schinus terebinthifolia for its striking appearance as an ornamental plant.
In some regions, the Schinus terebinthifolia is known for its ability to thrive in poor soil conditions.

Synonyms

Brazilian pepper tree

vsSchinus terebinthifolia

1 8.2

A small evergreen tree or shrub that people often grow for decoration

is the scientific name used for the same plant

Surface Forms

Schinus terebinthifolia singular

Schinus terebinthifolias plural

Morphology

Schinus + terebinthifolia

This is a Latin binomial (taxonomic) name, not a normal English compositional phrase: the second element is not a familiar English word and the first is a genus label. A B1 learner who knows the listed constituents would not be able to derive the common meaning 'Brazilian pepper tree' or its ornamental/invasive properties from these Latinized parts, so the term functions as an opaque technical label.

Etymology

Schinus terebinthifolia is the Latin name for the Brazilian pepper tree; the two parts, Schinus and terebinthifolia, point to a small tree with shiny leaves and red, pepper-like berries. Gardeners call it the 'Brazilian pepper' because those berries look like peppercorns, so the name helps you remember it is an ornamental tree that can spread quickly.