The Brazilian pepper tree is quite a common sight here in Cape Town - not only in residential gardens, but also lining many streets in the suburbs.
If the trees are shaped well as they grow, they look really attractive - like a giant bonsai - and can make a stunning feature in any garden.
Some years ago, a list was issued of plants and trees that are considered invasive and the brazilian pepper tree was added on to this list.
I cannot understand this, as here in Cape Town I have never heard any gardener complaining that this tree is invasive and I know many people that have one in their garden and have not had any problems.
For myself, I love the tree - as do the birds and the lovely shade that is provided in summer is most welcome.
However, there is something that many people do not know about it - despite its name - and that is that the small berries are actually little peppercorns that can be harvested and when dried, put into a pepper grinder and used as you would use the black peppercorns purchased in grocery stores.
Just wait until the berries turn red before harvesting - then dry them - and voila - you have your very own peppercorns.