Schinus

Schinus is a genus of trees and tall shrubs in the family Anacardiaceae comprising the pepper trees, most notably Schinus molle, the Peruvian Pepper tree, and Schinus terebinthifolius, the Brazilian Pepper tree or Christmasberry-- which is sometimes a source of the spice commonly known as pink peppercorns. Both can become serious invasive species outside their natural habitats. Schinus polygama, although less well known, is also potentially weedy in some areas.

Taxonomy

The genus is named from schinos, the Greek name for the Mastic Tree (Pistacia lentiscus), which it resembles.

Over time there has been a fair amount of reclassification within this genus and earlier names may incorrectly continue to be used by those unaware of changes, including in some cases government departments and even textbooks. The name Schinus areira remains widespread, in Australia (the Peppercorn tree) in particular, but is now considered to be a sub-species of Schinus molle