Schinus

Schinus
Schinus terebinthifolius
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
(unranked):	Angiosperms
(unranked):	Eudicots
(unranked):	Rosids
Order:	Sapindales
Family:	Anacardiaceae
Subfamily:	Anacardioideae
Genus:	Schinus L.
Type species
Schinus molle L.
Species
See text
Synonyms
Duvaua Kunth

See text

Duvaua Kunth

Schinus is a genus of flowering trees and tall shrubs in the sumac family, Anacardiaceae. Members of the genus are commonly known as pepper trees. The Peruvian pepper tree (Schinus molle) is the source of the spice known as pink peppercorns. They can become serious invasive species outside their natural habitats. Schinus polygama, although less well known, is also potentially weedy in some areas.

The generic name is derived from the Greek word for Pistacia lentiscus, Σχίνος (schinos), 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 variety of Schinus molle (var. areira).

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Wikipedia