SS-AGR-17/AA219: Brazilian Peppertree Control

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Top Highlights

• Brazilian peppertree is one of the worst offenders (Cuda et al. 2006).

• encroaching upon nearly all terrestrial ecosystems in central and south Florida

• abundant invasive species in the Florida Everglades

• Brazilian peppertree is native to Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay (Langeland et al 2008). It is thought to have been introduced to Florida in the 1840s as an ornamental plant

• Brazilian peppertree is listed on Florida’s Noxious Weed List. Inclusion on this regulatory list means "it is unlawful to introduce, multiply, possess, move or release any noxious weed"

• Brazilian peppertree is sensitive to cold temperatures, so it is more abundant in south and coastal Florida and protected areas of central and north Florida.

• Brazilian peppertree colonizes

• pastures, urban landscapes, pine rocklands, coastal dunes

• It has also colonized the margins of roads, rights of way, levees, and canals throughout south and central Florida

• Brazilian peppertree is a shrub or small tree that grows to 10 m (33 ft) tall with a short trunk which is usually hidden in a dense head of contorted, intertwining branches

• Birds and mammals are the primary means of seed dispersal

• Brazilian peppertree's high seed viability combined with animal dispersal may help explain widespread colonization.

• Herbicides that aid in the control of Brazilian peppertrees are available

• Cutting down Brazilian peppertrees and treating the tops of the stumps with herbicide comprise one method of control.

• The best time to cut Brazilian peppertrees is when they are not fruiting

• Brazilian peppertree produces a sap that may result in contact dermatitis in some people