City Targets ‘Brazilian Pepper’ to Protect Natural Environment
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The City of Rockingham is working to eradicate a noxious weed across the community, and is encouraging local residents to join in the task of removing the Brazilian Pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius).
In the past the Brazilian Pepper was considered to be an ornamental garden tree, however, it is now widely recognised as an invasive plant that has the ability to rapidly spread, making it a significant threat to bushland and wetland reserves.
It grows into a large shrub or tree that produces small bright red berries that can grow up to 5mm in diameter.
In residential yards, self-seeded plants can go unnoticed for years until they start to outcompete other plants. At this point they may begin to form dense thickets that can cause damage to property such as paving, fences and other infrastructure.
City of Rockingham Mayor Deb Hamblin said the longer the weeds were left to establish themselves, the harder they are to remove.
“Due to the Brazilian Pepper’s prolific growth, it can quickly outgrow native vegetation by shading and smothering pre-existing plants,” Mayor Hamblin said.
“The weed is primarily found in wetlands, coastal sites, and some rural areas, with seeds spread by birds and small mammals.
As the City works to remove the presence of the Brazilian Pepper from parks, nature reserves and streetscapes across the wider community, we encourage residents to also remove any instances of this weed from their own property. By working together we can help to rid the City of this environmentally damaging weed.For further information visit Verges and Gardens.
Image one: The Brazilian Pepper was once considered an ornamental garden tree, but is now deemed to be an invasive plant that can outgrow and smother native vegetation.
Image two: If the Brazilian Pepper is left to grow for too long, it can become very difficult to remove. Pictures: City of Rockingham.