Why You Should Remove Invasive Pepper Trees Before They Take Over

Pepper trees—especially the Brazilian Pepper Tree (Schinus terebinthifolia) may look harmless, even attractive, with their bright red berries and dense green foliage, but don’t be fooled.

These invasive trees are among the most aggressive and environmentally destructive species in Florida.

At Sarasota Arborist, we specialize in the safe and effective removal of invasive Pepper Trees before they can spread out of control and do lasting damage to your property and the local ecosystem.

Why Are Pepper Trees a Problem?

Pepper trees pose a serious threat for several reasons:

• Dense Canopy Growth: Their thick foliage blocks sunlight, smothering native ground cover and preventing the growth of more beneficial native species.
• Rapid Spread: They reproduce aggressively through seeds spread by birds and wildlife, quickly colonizing large areas.
• Disruption of Aquatic Habitats: These trees often invade wetlands and water edges, choking out native aquatic plants and altering the natural flow of water systems.
• Allergenic & Irritating: Some people experience skin irritation or respiratory issues from the tree’s sap and airborne particles.
• Difficult to Control: Cutting them down isn’t enough. Pepper trees can resprout vigorously from stumps or roots unless properly treated and removed.

Why You Should Act Now

Once established, Pepper Trees can be incredibly difficult and costly to remove. Early intervention is key. If you suspect you have one—or several—on your property, it's important to act before they multiply or damage surrounding landscapes.

At Sarasota Arborist, we use targeted removal techniques and follow best practices to ensure that Pepper Trees are completely eradicated and won’t return. Our team can also help you choose native or non-invasive alternatives to restore and enhance your landscape.

Don’t let invasive Pepper Trees take over your yard or natural areas. Contact Sarasota Arborist today for a professional assessment and removal plan that protects your property—and Florida’s native ecosystems—for years to come.