False pepper


The evergreen tree originates mainly from different areas of Latin America and is classified in the vast and relevant family grouping of the Anacardiaceae. This typical landscaping plant is characterized by its large and majestic foliage and especially by its red, fragrant and spicy berries, to which it owes its name. It will be sprayed only when it is necessary, with a clear prevalence of wetting in the spring and summer seasons and appropriate slowing down or even interruption of the work during cold and rigid periods. The False Pepper will be able to adapt to moderate intervals of time without spraying, however it will be affected in consequence both the brilliance of the foliage and the periodic blooms and the production of brightly colored fruits.


The False pepper can easily be placed in particularly large containers, nevertheless its ideal position will be in the open air adorning green spaces and any type of roads in direct contact with nature. In any case, it will be important to prepare a soil that is not too compact and equipped with organic substances, to which will be associated sandy and gravel components suitable to ensure perfect drainage, essential for the decorative plant. Regular pruning of the tree may take place, although not essential, in order to eventually shape the posture and to remove branches and leaves that are now torn or dried. If placed in a container, repotting works will be carried out in case of specific needs related to root development.


Whatever the chosen position, the evergreen will be cyclically fertilized for the purpose of taking the right nutrients. As a rule, solid granular organic fertilizers can be used, distinct from the progressive release over time, with a four-monthly frequency that can be increased based on specific needs. Fertilizers of a liquid nature will be less in use, but equally valid, to be administered on average every two weeks by dilution in the water of watering. In both cases it will be a specific fertilizer for fruit-makers and will have to contain an adequate presence of nitrogenous and especially potassium and phosphorus elements, together with the necessary microelements which, moreover, assume enormous importance for the complete and balanced feeding of the tree.

False pepper: Exposure and pathologies

The luxuriant ornamental tree will prefer a lighted and sunny habitat, exposed to direct sunlight, but will not disdain partially shady locations for some moments of the day. On the other hand, it will not tolerate sudden flows of air, cold or cold weather conditions. If temperatures should fall below 0 ° C, in fact, it will be advisable to repair it using fabrics or other materials suitable for the purpose. Finally, the evergreen plant will not be undermined except in very rare cases by insects and parasites, however it may be attacked by rottenness in the root system, due to improper or inefficient drainage of the earth. In this last situation, it will be advisable to stop spraying habits promptly and use a special fungicide.